LESSONS
FROM
THE
EPISTLES TO THE
CORINTHIANS
S7,,V‘ 'lir' •
SABBATH
SCHOOL
LESSON
arter, 1966
THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY
"The beauty and riches of the Word have a transforming influence on
mind and character."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 132.
"There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study
of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to
give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If
God's Word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of
mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these
times."—Steps to Christ,
page 9o.
My Daily Lesson Study Pledge
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge
myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath School
lesson each day of the week.
Name
Lesson Titles for the Quarter
1.
Establishment of the Corinthian Church
2.
Backgrounds of the Corinthian Epistles
3.
Christian Unity
4.
Warnings Against Immorality
5.
Counsels Concerning Marriage
6.
Relationships Between Churc Members
7.
Profiting From Israel's Failure
8.
Spiritual Gifts
.
9.
Love, the More Excellent Way
10.
The Hope of the Resurrection
11.
Fortitude in Affliction
12.
Christian Liberality
13.
Concluding Admonitions
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 283, January-March, 1966. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a
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Copyright, 1965, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
Printed in U.S.A.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
LESSONS FROM THE EPISTLES TO THE CORINTHIANS
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
This quarter's lessons are devoted to a
study of First and Second Corinthians.
From a doctrinal and practical point of
view, First Corinthians is one of the most
important epistles in the New Testament.
Most of the lessons will be based on this
epistle; the remainder will draw on the
practical instructions of the second letter.
If the church at Corinth appears to us
to have been unusually faulty, it should
be remembered that it had been in exis-
tence only a few years, that Christian-
ity had been established only recently on
the soil of Europe, and that the whole
Christian tradition was young. Leader-
ship for the infant church had to be se-
lected from the new converts, many of
whom had been pagans but a short time
before.
"Many Romans lived in the city [Cor-
inth], also Greeks and Orientals. There
was also a Jewish community large enough
to have its own synagogue. A stone lintel
with a fragmentary inscription `[Synal-
gogue of the Hebr[ews]' has been found
there. . . . The script shows that it comes
from a building of the 4th cent. A.D., which
may, however, have been at the place on
which the synagogue of Paul's day had
stood (Acts 18:4). The contrast in the
social ;statusof the rather mixed population
was great, probably two thirds of the pop-
ulation being made up of slaves. Hence,
many were poor, and a small number
were exceedingly rich."—S.D.A.
Bible Dic-
tionary,
page 223.
"Into this city of six hundred thousand
inhabitants—this seething mass of Jews,
merchants, philosophers, ex-soldiers, retail-
ers, and agents of vice—the lonely and
suffering apostle found his way. With all
their faults of head and of heart, these
Greeks aroused his deepest interest. . . .
He learnt to love the Corinthians with in-
tense affection, though he never had to
deal with any Church so inflated and so
immoral, so indifferent to his sufferings,
so contemptuous towards his teaching, or
so tolerant of the opposition and the cal-
umnies of his personal enemies and rivals."
—The Pulpit Commentary,
on 1 Corin-
thians, page ii.
Lesson 1, for January 1, 1966
Establishment of the Corinthian Church
MEMORY VERSE:
"And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency
of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God
.
. For I
determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him
crucified." 1 Cor. 2:1, 2.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 243-254; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary."
STUDY AIM:
To study the beginnings of the Corinthian church, the characteristics
of its members, and environmental factors affecting the members' experiences,
so as to understand better the letters addressed to this church.
[31
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Learn memory verse; Gen-
eral Introduction; Introduction
to lesson; questions 1-3.
Monday: Questions 4-6.
Tuesday: Questions 7-11.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
0
0
0
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Preparation for the Second Mission-
ary Journey
1.
Motivation for the journey. Acts
15:36.
2.
Break with Barnabas. Acts 15:
37-40.
3.
Enlistment of Timothy. Acts
16:1-3.
II. The Gospel to Europe
4.
The call in a night vision. Acts
16:6-10.
5.
Luke joins the company. Acts
16:11.
6. Evangelism in various European
cities. Acts 16:12, 13; 17:1, 2, 10,
11, 15-17.
III. Beginnings in Corinth
7. Means of livelihood. Acts 18:1-3.
8. Beginning of gospel witness. Acts
18:4.
9. Intensification of campaign, Acts
18:5.
10. Opposition aroused. Acts 18:6-8.
11. Encouragement imparted. Acts
18:9, 10.
IV. The Work Established
12. Evangelism continued. Acts 18:11.
13. Opposition renewed. Acts 18:12-17.
14. Campaign ended. Acts 18:18.
THE LESSON
Introduction
From the historical records in the book
of Acts we shall reconstruct in this lesson
the circumstances surrounding the found-
ing of the Christian church in the ancient
city of Corinth. A knowledge of these
backgrounds is essential to an understand-
ing of the message of the epistles that Paul
wrote to this church.
"During the first century of the Chris-
tian Era, Corinth was one of the leading
cities, not only of Greece, but of the world.
Greeks, Jews, and Romans, with travelers
from every land, thronged its streets, ea-
gerly intent on business and pleasure. A
great commercial center, situated within
easy access of all parts of the Roman Em-
pire, it was an important place in which
to establish memorials for God and His
truth."-The
Acts of the Apostles,
page
243.
"The city was universally known for its
immorality. The term 'Corinthian girl'
was synonymous with 'prostitute,' and 'to
Corinthianize' meant to lead an immoral
life. In later Greek comedies 'Corinthian'
is occasionally the designation for a drunk-
ard. According to Strabo there were about
1,000 slave girls as temple prostitutes in
the sanctuary of Aphrodite located on
Acrocorinthus.
An inscription shows they
had their own seats in the theater. These
conditions throw light on Paul's refer-
ences to the immorality of the pagan world
in his two letters to the Corinthians (1 Cor
5:1; 6:9-20; 10:8; 2 Cor 7:1), and in his
letter to the Romans (Rom 1:18-32),
written while he was at Corinth during
his 3d Missionary Journey."-S.D.A.
Bible
Dictionary,
page 223. The church estab-
lished in this profligate city was indeed a
monument to the grace of God.
4
Preparation for the Second
Missionary Journey
1.
After having returned from his
first missionary journey and having
spent some time at Antioch in Syria,
what motivated Paul to set out on
another missionary journey? Acts
15:36.
NoTE.—"Both Paul and Barnabas had a
tender regard for those who had recently
accepted the gospel message under their
ministry, and they longed to see them once
more. This solicitude Paul never lost. Even
when in distant mission fields, far from
the scene of his earlier labors, he continued
to bear upon his heart the burden of urg-
ing these converts to remain faithful, 'per-
fecting holiness in the fear of God.'
. . . Constantly he tried to help them to
become self-reliant, growing Christians,
strong in faith, ardent in zeal, and whole-
hearted in their consecration to God and to
the work of advancing His kingdom."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 201.
2.
What caused Paul's break with
Barnabas, and who accompanied Paul
on his second missionary journey?
Acts 15:37-40.
NOTE.—"Barnabas was ready to go with
Paul, but wished to take with them Mark,
who had again decided to devote himself
to the ministry. To this Paul objected. He
`thought not good to take . . . with them'
one who during their first missionary jour-
ney had left them in a time of need. He
was not inclined to excuse Mark's weak-
ness in deserting the work for the safety
and comforts of home. He urged that one
with so little stamina was unfitted for
a
work requiring patience, self-denial, brav-
ery, devotion, faith, and a willingness to
sacrifice, if need be, even life itself. So
sharp was the contention that Paul and
Barnabas separated, the latter following
out his convictions and taking Mark with
him."—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 202.
3.
Who joined the evangelistic
company at Lystra? Acts 16:1-3.
The Gospel to Europe
4.
What circumstances led Paul to
carry the gospel to Europe? Acts
16:6-10.
NOTE.—"Both Roman power and Greek
culture are the servants and agents of
Paul as he stands upon the shores of the
Aegean Sea and faces the problems of
Europe. It is one of those eras in history
which give one pause. One can but won-
der what might have been the result if
Paul had not pushed on to Troas, but had
turned back to Cappadocia and Pontus, to
Armenia and Babylonia, to India and
China. Others might in time have carried
the gospel westward, as some did to Rome.
But if the stamp of Paul were removed
from Macedonia, Achaia, and Rome, Chris-
tian history would not have run the same
course."—A. T. Robertson,
Epochs in the
Life of Paul,
page 146 (1935 ed.).
5.
Who else joined the company
at this point? Acts 16:11.
NOTE.—"Luke, the writer of the Gospel
that bears his name, was a medical mis-
sionary. In the Scriptures he is called 'the
beloved physician.' . . . The apostle Paul
heard of his skill as a physician, and
sought him out as one to whom the Lord
had entrusted a special work. He secured
his cooperation, and for some time Luke
accompanied him in his travels from place
to place."—The
Ministry of Healing,
pages
140, 141.
"We have not had Luke's presence in
the story before, and it is revealed here
by the use of 'we' and 'us' (Acts 16:10).
Where Luke joined the party we are not
told. It is possible, though pure conjec-
ture, that this 'beloved physician' (Col.
4:14) may have saved Paul's life during
his sickness in Galatia (Gal. 4:13). But
the appearance of this Gentile Christian
(one of Paul's new converts?) on the
scene is an event of the first importance
in the life of Paul. He will not, indeed, be
with Paul constantly, though he is in the
story in Acts steadily, from Acts 20:5 to
the end, as well as from 16:10 to Philippi
(the 'we' sections). He is with Paul in
[6]
Rome in both of his imprisonments (Col.
4:14; 2 Tim. 3:11)."—A. T. Robertson,
Epochs in the Life of Paul,
page 147.
6.
At what important centers did
Paul preach the gospel before arriv-
ing at Corinth? Acts 16:12, 13; 17:1,
2, 10, 11, 15-17.
Beginnings in Corinth
7.
Arriving at Corinth, in what did
the apostle engage to earn a liveli-
hood? Acts 18:1-3. Compare 1 Cor.
9:14, 15; 1 Thess. 2:9.
NozE.—"The volatile suspicious char-
acter of the people made the apostle feel
the necessity for being most carefully on his
guard. He was determined to set an ex-
ample of the most lofty and disinterested
self-denial. He had been trained to a
trade, like every other Jewish boy, in
accordance with a wise rule of the rabbis.
His trade was the humble and mechanical
trade of tent-making; and finding a Jew-
ish compatriot named Aquila, who worked
at this trade, with his wife Priscilla, he
entered into partnership with them. They
had been expelled from Rome by a decree
of Claudius, in A.D. 52, and had probably
been converted to Christianity by the un-
known disciples who had founded the
Roman Church. With them St. Paul
formed a happy and lifelong friendship,
and by toiling with them, he was able to
earn a living, which was, however, so
scanty that it often barely sufficed even
for his simple wants (Acts xx.34; ch. iv.
11, 12; ix.4, 12; 2 Cor. vii.2; xi.9)."—
The Pulpit Commentary,
on 1 Corinthians,
pages ii,
"The envy and rage of the Jews against
the Christians knew no bounds, and the
unbelieving residents were constantly stirred
up. They made complaints that the Chris-
tian Jews were disorderly, and dangerous
to the public good. Constantly they were
setting in motion something that would
stir up strife. This caused the Christians
to be banished fro'ffri ,R9me. Among those
bat4:44,
vfierAutii criltOt4.1
t
01941a
13
1i§lied;k14
business as manufacturers of tents."—Ellen
G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1063.
8.
How did Paul begin his gospel
witness in that great commercial
center? Acts 18:4.
9.
What incident led Paul to be
more bold in his witness for Christ?
Acts 18:5.
NOTE.—Silas and Tiinothy had been with
Paul last at Athens, where he had sum-
moned them after his expulsion from
Berea. At that time he sent Timothy back
to Thessalonica to ascertain how the young
believers there were faring after the out-
break of persecution. Silas also returned
to Macedonia. Now they rejoined Paul.
The good news they brought of the state
of the church in Macedonia greatly en-
couraged Paul's heart, giving him new
boldness and power in his preaching.
10.
What was the reaction of the
Jews, and what did this lead Paul
to do? Acts 18:6-8.
NOTE.—"The hatred with which the Jews
had always regarded the apostles was now
intensified. The conversion and baptism of
Crispus had the effect of exasperating in-
stead of convincing these stubborn oppos-
ers. They could not bring arguments to
disprove Paul's preaching, and for lack of
such evidence they resorted to deception
and malignant attack. They blasphemed
the gospel and the name of Jesus. In their
blind anger no words were too bitter, no
device too low, for them to use."—The
Acts
of the Apostles,
page 249.
11.
In the midst of opposition and
persecution, what • encouragement
came to Paul? Acts 18:9, 10.
NOTE.—"Though Paul had a measure of
sactess in COrinth, yet the wickedness that
he saw a,ricl:Theard in that corrupt city al-
[ 61 '
most disheartened him. The depravity
that he witnessed among the Gentiles, and
the contempt and insult that he received
from the Jews, caused him great anguish of
spirit. He doubted the wisdom of trying
to build up a church from the material
that he found there.
"As he was planning to leave the city
for a more promising field, and seeking
earnestly to understand his duty, the Lord
appeared to him in a vision and said, 'Be
not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy
peace: for I am with thee, and no man
shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have
much people in this city.'
"—The Acts of
the Apostles,
page 250.
The Work Established
12. How long did Paul remain in
Corinth establishing a new Christian
community? Acts 18:11.
NoTE.—If Paul's second missionary jour-
ney be dated
A.D.
49 to 52, his eighteen-
month ministry in Corinth would fall in
the latter part of this period, or about 51
and 52. See
S.D.A. Bible Dictionary,
pages
826, 827.
13.
What new opposition was
aroused, and what was its outcome?
Acts 18:12-17.
Nora.—"The Jewish religion was under
the protection of the Roman power, and
the accusers of Paul thought that if they
could fasten upon him the charge of vio-
lating the laws of their religion, he would
probably be delivered to them for trial
and sentence. They hoped thus to compass
his death. But Gallio was a man of in-
tegrity, and he refused to become the dupe
of the jealous, intriguing Jews. Disgusted
with their bigotry and self-righteousness,
he would take no notice of the charge."—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 253.
14.
How did Paul conclude his
labors in Corinth? Acts 18:18.
Lesson
2, for January 8, 1966
Backgrounds of the Corinthian Epistles
MEMORY VERSE:
"For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto
you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know
the love which I have more abundantly unto you." 2 Corinthians 2:4.
STUDY HELPS:
Introductions to 1 and 2 Corinthians in "S.D.A. Bible Commentary";
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 298-301; "S.D.A. Bible Dictionary."
STUDY AIM:
To present the background of the writing of the two letters to the
Corinthian believers.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Begin learning memory
verse; Introduction; questions
1-3.
Monday: Questions 4-6.
Tuesday: Questions 7-9.
Wednesday: Questions 10-12.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
[7
1
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Background of 1 Corinthians
1.
Paul at Ephesus on third journey.
Acts 19:1, 10; 20:31.
2.
Paul writes 1 Corinthians while at
Ephesus. 1 Cor. 16:8, 19.
3.
Circumstances that occasioned the
letter. 1 Cor. 1:11; 5:1; 7:1.
4.
A secretary writes the letter. 1 Cor.
16:21.
5.
Earlier correspondence. 1 Cor. 5:9.
6.
The author identified. 1 Cor.1:1;
16:21.
II. Background of 2 Corinthians
7.
Paul's plans alter leaving Ephesus.
Acts 19:21.
8.
Paul's departure hastened. Acts
19:24-41.
9.
Paul's experience in Troas. 2 Cor.
2:12, 13.
10.
Meeting of Paul and Titus'in Mace-
donia occasions second epistle.
2 Cor. 7:5-7.
11.
Confirming evidence that 2 Co-
rinthians was written from Mace-
donia. 2 Cor. 8:1; 9:2, 4.
12.
Reference to former epistle. 2 Cor.
2:4.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Before beginning the study of a Biblical
book we should (1) identify the author and
become acquainted with him; (2) learn all
we can of those to whom the message was
addressed; (3) become acquainted with
the times in which they lived; and (4) re-
construct the circumstances that occasioned
the giving of the message. When the mes-
sage is studied, it is well to seek to as-
certain first what the message meant to
those who first heard it; then we should
apply its lessons to ourselves.
Notice how this method of study is
applied to the Sermon on the Mount: "Let
us in imagination go back to that scene,
and, as we sit with the disciples on the
mountainside, enter into the thoughts and
feelings that filled their hearts. Under-
standing what the words of Jesus meant to
those who heard them, we may discern in
them a new vividness and beauty, and
may also gather for ourselves their deepet
lessons."-Thoughts From the Mount of
Blessing,
page 1.
In this lesson we shall reconstruct the
backgrounds of the Corinthian epistles. In
subsequent lessons, as we study the con-
tents of the books, we shall first seek to
understand what the messages meant to
the Corinthian believers when the letters
were read to them; then we shall draw
for ourselves their deeper lessons.
Background of 1 Corinthians
1.
On his third missionary journey,
what city did Paul
.
make the center
of his evangelistic activities? Acts 19:
1, 10; 20:31.
NOTE.
-"For over three years Ephesus
was the center of Paul's work. A flourish-
ing church was raised up here, and from
this city the gospel spread throughout the
province of Asia, among both Jews and
Gentiles."-The
Acts of the Apostles,
page
291.
2.
Where was Paul when he wrote
what is now called his first epistle to
the Corinthians? During what part
of his stay there was it written? 1 Cor.
16:8, 19.
NOTE.
-These
verses show clearly that
1 Corinthians was written while Paul was
at Ephesus. His mention of waiting till
after Pentecost before setting out for Mace-
donia and Achaia suggests that the letter
most probably was written in the spring
of the year, shortly before leaving Ephesus
after three years of ministry there. It is
difficult to date the events in Paul's life
[ 8 ]
precisely, but according to one scheme of
chronology 1 Corinthians was written in
the spring of AD. 57. See the
S.D.A. Bible
Commentary,
Vol. 6, pp. 101-103.
The note at the end of 1 Corinthians ap-
pearing in certain Bibles stating that "the
first epistle to the Corinthians was written
from Philippi" is not a part of Scripture,
but is an editorial note appended in recent
centuries. It does not accord with historical
facts, nor with the statement, "The first
epistle to the Corinthian church was writ-
ten by the apostle Paul during the latter
part of his stay at Ephesus."—The
Acts of
the Apostles,
page 298.
3. What are some of the circum-
stances that occasioned the writing
of the letter? 1 Cor. 1:11; 5:1; 7:1.
NOTE.—"During Paul's absence since the
founding of the church some three years
before, . . . numerous problems had arisen
that demanded the apostle's attention. We
learn of these from the epistle itself. First
of all, factions had disrupted the church.
Because of his eloquence and learning,
Apollos was exalted above Paul by many
in the church (see 1 Cor. 1:12; 3:4; cf.
Acts 18:24 to 19:1). Others boasted that
they were followers of neither Paul nor
Apollos, but of Peter, one of the original
apostles (1 Cor. 1:12). Still others dis-
claimed adherence to any human leader
and professed to be followers of Christ
(ch. 1:12).
"Furthermore, living as did the members
of the Corinthian church in the midst of
the profligate people of Corinth, many
who had renounced their wicked ways
slipped back into their old habits of life
(ch. 5). Further, disrepute had come upon
the church by Christians settling their quar-
rels in the secular courts. The Lord's Sup-
per had been made an occasion for feasting
(ch. 11:17-34). Questions had also arisen
regarding marriage and related social prob-
lems (ch. 7), the eating of foods sacrificed
to idols (ch. 8), the proper conduct of
women in public worship (ch. 11:2-16).
There was misunderstanding also regarding
the proper function of spiritual gifts (chs.
12-14). Some were skeptical regarding the
fact and manner of the resurrection (ch.
15)."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6,
p. 656.
4.
What statement shows that Paul
employed a secretary to write this
epistle? 1 Cor. 16:21.
NOTE.—The fact that Paul affixes his
greeting with his own hand implies that
the rest of the epistle was written by some-
one else's hand, although at Paul's dicta-
tion.
It is said of Paul that "he dictated to
the faithful Sosthenes one of the richest,
most instructive, and most powerful of all
his letters,—the first extant Epistle to the
Corinthians."—Ellen G. White,
Sketches
From the Life of Paul,
page 151.
5.
What shows that 1 Corinthians
was not Paul's first letter to the Co-
rinthian church? 1 Cor. 5:9.
NOTE.—This letter has been lost. Nothing
is known of it except this brief mention.
The New Testament does not contain all
the correspondence of its writers.
"Paul had written briefly to the church,
admonishing them 'not to company' with
members who should persist in profligacy;
but many of the believers perverted the
apostle's meaning, quibbled over his words,
and excused themselves for disregarding his
instruction."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 300.
6.
How is Paul identified as the
author of the epistle? 1 Cor. 1:1;
16:21.
Background of 2 Corinthians
7.
After concluding his ministry in
Ephesus, what did Paul plan to do?
Acts 19:21. Compare 1 Cor. 16:8.
NoTE.—Paul's original plan was to go to
Corinth and from there to Macedonia and
then to return to Corinth once more before
going to Jerusalem. He later changed
his
plans and went to Macedonia first.
C
9]
8.
What events hastened Paul's de-
parture from Ephesus and his setting
out for Macedonia? Acts 19:24-41.
Compare 1 Cor. 15:32; 2 Cor. 1:8.
NOTE.—"He was, indeed, hurried away
from Ephesus rather sooner than he had
expected. It is possible, though not cer-
tain, that 1 Corinthians was written from
Ephesus about the passover time (1 Cor.
5:7). He did not remain till Pentecost
(1 Cor. 16:8) in spite of 'a great door and
effectual' which was opened unto him. The
`many adversaries' at last proved too much
for him. It had already come to be like
fighting wild beasts to go on at Ephesus
(1 Cor. 15:32). He was in daily peril of
his life. He had held his ground at Ephesus
longer even than at Corinth. But finally a
condition arose that drove him away, a
consolation perhaps to many a pastor who
has had to leave the scene of former
triumphs for Christ."—A. T. Robertson,
Epochs in the Life of Paul,
page 184.
9.
At what city did Paul stop en
route, and what prevented his taking
advantage of an opportunity to preach
Christ's gospel? 2 Cor. 2:12, 13.
NOTE.—"Verses 12, 13 reveal Paul's deep
personal affection for the Corinthian be-
lievers and his unabated interest in their
welfare. He had apparently dispatched
Titus to Corinth to work for the restora-
tion of harmony and to obtain a full report
of conditions and of how the Corinthians
received his letter of reproof (cf. AA 323).
It seems that they had agreed to meet each
other at Troas, but Titus had apparently
been prevented from keeping that appoint-
ment."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on 2
Cor. 2:12.
10.
Where did Titus meet Paul,
and what was the effect on Paul of
his arrival? 2 Cor. 7:5-7.
NOTE.—"At length the long-expected
Titus arrived at Philippi, and relieved the
anxiety of his master by better tidings than
he had hoped to hear. The majority of the
Corinthian Church had submitted to the
injunctions of St. Paul, and testified the
deepest repentance for the sins into which
they had fallen. They had passed sentence
of excommunication upon the incestuous
person, and they had readily contributed
towards the collection for the poor Chris-
tians of Palestine. But there was still a
minority, whose opposition seems to have
been rather imbittered than humbled by
the submission which the great body of the
Church had thus yielded. They proclaimed,
in a louder and more contemptuous tone
than ever, their accusations against the
Apostle."—Conybeare and Howson,
The
Life and Epistles of Saint Paul,
1906 ed.,
p. 483.
It was this news from Corinth that oc-
casioned the writing of 2 Corinthians. The
letter was dispatched from Macedonia some
weeks after the sending of 1 Corinthians.
Shortly after this Paul visited the church
again.
11.
What further evidences are
there that Paul was in Macedonia
when he wrote 2 Corinthians? 2 Cor.
8:1; 9:2, 4.
12.
In his second letter, with what
feelings did Paul say he had written
his former epistle? 2 Cor. 2:4.
NOTE.—"With 'anguish of heart' and with
`many tears' he sought counsel from God.
Gladly would he have visited Corinth at
once, had this been the wisest course to
pursue. But he knew that in their present
condition the believers would not profit by
his labors, and therefore he sent Titus to
prepare the way for a visit from himself
later on. Then, putting aside all personal
feelings over the course of those whose
conduct revealed such strange perverseness,
and keeping his soul stayed upon God, the
apostle wrote to ' the church at Corinth
one of the richest, most instructive, most
powerful of all his letters."—The
Acts of
the Apostles,
pages 300, 301.
[10
]
Lesson 3, for January 15, 1966
Christian Unity
MEMORY VERSE:
"Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus
Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions
among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and
in the same judgment." 1 Cor. 1:10.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 301-303; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary."
STUDY AIM:
From Paul's counsel to the disunited Corinthian believers, to establish
principles of true Christian unity.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Begin learning memory
verse; Introduction; questions
1,2. ,
Monday: Questions 3-6.
Tuesday: Questions 7-9.
Wednesday: Questions 10-13.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Introductory Remarks
1.
Greeting. 1 Cor. 1:1-3.
2.
Thanksgiving commendation.
1 Cor. 1:4-9.
II. Factions in the Church
3.
Information regarding factions
reaches Paul. 1 Cor. 1:10, 11.
4.
The factions identified. 1 Cor. 1:12.
III. The True Wisdom of God
5.
Greek love of philosophy. 1 Cor.
1:17, 22, 23.
6.
The true basis of glorying. 1 Cor.
1:26-31.
7.
Paul's manner of ministry. 1 Cor.
2:1-5.
8.
The wisdom of God revealed.
1 Cor. 2:6-9.
9.
The Holy Spirit the revealer.
1 Cor. 2:10-16.
IV. The True Position of the Gospel
Minister
10.
The spiritual experience of the dis-
united Corinthian believers. 1 Cor.
3:1-4.
11.
The minister a colaborer with God.
1 Cor. 3:5-9.
12.
The minister must take heed how
he builds. 1 Cor. 3:10-17.
13.
Paul's experiences contrasted with
those of Corinthian teachers.
1 Cor. 4:8-16.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Only a few short years after Paul had
established the Corinthian church, a de-
plorable party spirit divided the young con-
gregation into several factions, with groups
taking sides in support of or against for-
mer pastors and ministers, including Apollos.
The apostle Paul was severely criticized,
and he knew that he must act to meet the
problem.
"Paul had sought to impress upon the
minds of his Corinthian brethren the fact
that he and the ministers associated with
him were but men commissioned by God
to teach the truth, that they were all en-
gaged in the same work, and that they
were alike dependent upon God for success
in their labors. . . .
"It was Paul who had first preached the
gospel in Corinth, and who had organized
the church there. This was the work that
the Lord had assigned him. Later, by
God's direction, other workers were brought
in, to stand in their lot and place. The
seed sown must be watered, and this
Apollos was to do. He followed Paul in
his work, to give further instruction, and
to help the seed sown to develop. He won
his way to the hearts of the people, but
it was God who gave the increase. It is
not human, but divine power, that works
transformation of character. Those who
plant and those who water do not cause
the growth of the seed; they work under
God, as His appointed agencies, coopera-
ting with Him in His work. To the Master
Worker belongs the honor and glory that
comes with success."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
pages 273, 274.
In chapters one to four of 1 Corinthians,
Paul deals with various aspects of the prob-
lem of party spirit and makes a powerful
appeal for Christian unity.
Introductory Remarks
1.
Name the various elements in
Paul's opening salutation to the Co-
rinthian church? 1 Cor. 1:1-3.
NoTE.—Little is known of the Sosthenes
who here appears as joint sender of the
epistle. He may be identical with the
Sosthenes, head of the synagogue at Cor-
inth, mentioned in Acts 18:17. If so, he
must have been converted after the events
of Acts 18.
2.
What privileges and benefits had
been enjoyed by the Corinthians?
1 Cor. 1:4-9.
Non.—Paul did not hesitate to give
commendation where commendation was
due. It was diplomatic for him to do so in
the introduction to his letter, because it
would help him to gain a favorable hearing
for the severe rebukes to follow. However,
it is interesting to note that Paul did not
praise the Corinthian believers directly;
his praise was directed to God, whose
grace, and not the believers' own effort,
had produced the spiritual felicity.
Factions in the Church
3.
Having concluded his intro-
ductory remarks, into what subject
did Paul abruptly launch? 1 Cor.
1:10, 11.
NOTE.—"About this time there came to
Ephesus members of the household of
Chloe, a Christian family of high repute
in Corinth. Paul asked them regarding the
condition of things, and they told him that
the church was rent by divisions. The dis-
sensions that had prevailed at the time of
Apollos's visit had greatly increased. False
teachers were leading the members to de-
spise the instructions of Paul. The doctrines
and ordinances of the gospel had been
perverted. Pride, idolatry, and sensualism
were steadily increasing among those who
had once been zealous in the Christian life."
—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 300.
"Paul was an inspired apostle. The truths
he taught to others he had received 'by
revelation;' yet the Lord did not directly
reveal to him at all times just the condition
of His people. In this instance, those who
were interested in the prosperity of the
church at Corinth, and who had seen evils
creeping in, had presented the matter be-
fore the apostle, and from divine revela-
tions which he had formerly received he
was prepared to judge of the character of
these developments."—Ibid., p. 302.
4.
Of what nature were the fac-
tions? 1 Cor. 1:12.
NOTE.—"Apollos . . . a Jewish convert to
the message of John the Baptist, described
as being diligent, fervent, and 'an eloquent
man, and mighty in the scriptures' (Acts
18:24, 25). He was born at the Egyptian
city of Alexandria. After his conversion
he became an itinerent evangelist (chs 18:
24, 27; 19:1). While preaching at Ephesus
[ 12 ]
he met Aquila and Priscilla, Christian Jews,
who instructed him in the tenets of Chris-
tianity (ch 18:26, 28). After this Apollos
went to the Roman province of Achaia,
taking with him a letter of recommenda-
tion from the church at Ephesus (v 27).
While in Achaia he preached with success
in the city of Corinth (chs 18:28; 19:1),
and because of his abilities became popu-
lar with a certain faction that began to
exalt him, as opposed to other groups
which exalted Paul, Peter, or Christ (1 Cor
1:12). This condition received no encour-
agement from Apollos, and it was doubtless
because of it that he refused to return to
Corinth when Paul asked him to do so
(ch 16:12). In his rebuke to the church
for their factious spirit Paul stated that he
and Apollos were 'one,' and 'laborers to-
gether' (ch 3:6-9)."—S.D.A.
Bible Diction-
ary,
page 59.
The True Wisdom of God
5.
What characteristic of the an-
cient Greeks in part lay at the basis
of the factions? 1 Cor. 1:17, 22, 23.
NOTE.—"The Greeks prized highly their
subtle and learned methods of disputation
and the polished eloquence of their orators.
Paul did not seek to emulate their involved,
philosophical style of rhetoric. The success
of the gospel does not depend on these
things, and the apostle had not exhibited
them in his preaching. His teaching and
manner of speech were not such as called
forth the praise of the sophisticated Greeks.
They did not regard his preaching as wise.
He was anxious that the glory of the cross
of Christ should not be obscured by human
philosophy and elegant oratory, and thus
the glory be given to man instead of to
God. The preaching of the cross depends
for its success, not upon the power of hu-
man reasoning and the charm of polished
argumentation, but upon the impact of its
simple truth attended by the power of the
Holy Spirit."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 1:17.
6.
Instead of glorying in human
wisdom, in what should the Corin-
thian believers have been glorying?
1 Cor. 1:26-31.
7.
In view of the Greek tendency,
and of the characteristics of the gos-
pel, of what nature had been Paul's
ministry in Corinth? 1 Cor. 2:1-5.
NoTE.—"In preaching the gospel in Cor-
inth, the apostle followed a course differ-
ent from that which had marked his labors
at Athens. While in the latter place, he had
sought to adapt his style to the character
of his audience; he had met logic with logic,
science with science, philosophy with
philosophy. As he thought of the time
thus spent, and realized that his teaching
in Athens had been productive of but
little fruit, he decided to follow another
plan of labor in Corinth in his efforts to
arrest the attention of the careless and the
indifferent. He determined to avoid elabo-
rate arguments and discussions, and 'not
to know anything' among the Corinthians
`save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.'
"—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 244.
8.
What superior wisdom did the
gospel contain? 1 Cor. 2:6-9.
9.
How only can men attain to the
higher wisdom? 1 Cor. 2:10-16.
The True Position of the Gospel
Minister
10.
What did the presence of fac-
tions indicate as to the spiritual expe-
rience of the Corinthian believers?
1 Cor. 3:1-4.
NOTE.—"Paul had necessarily adapted his
manner of teaching to the condition of the
church. 'I, brethren, could not speak unto
you as unto spiritual,' he afterward ex-
plained to them, 'but as unto carnal, even
as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you
with milk, and not with meat: for hith-
erto ye were not able to bear it, neither
yet now are ye able.' 1 Cor. 3:1, 2. Many
of the Corinthian believers had been slow
to learn the lessons that he was endeavor-
[ 13 ]
ing to teach them. Their advancement in
spiritual knowledge had not been pro-
portionate to their privileges and oppor-
tunities. When they should have been far
advanced in Christian experience, and able
to comprehend and to practice the deeper
truths of the Word, they were standing
where the disciples stood when Christ said
to them, 'I have yet many things to say
unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.'"
—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 271.
11.
How should the Corinthians
have regarded their spiritual leaders
Paul and Apollos? 1 Cor.
3:5-9.
12.
What warning did Paul issue
to
those who were putting into the
structure of the church worthless
materials? 1 Cor.
3:10-17.
NOTE.—
"
The apostles built upon a sure
foundation, even the Rock of Ages. To this
foundation they brought the stones that
they quarried from the world. Not without
hindrance did the builders labor. Their
work was made exceedingly difficult by the
opposition of the enemies of Christ. They
had to contend against the bigotry, preju-
dice, and hatred of those who were build-
ing upon a false foundation. Many who
wrought as builders of the church could
be likened to the builders of the wall in
Nehemiah's day, of whom it is written:
`They which builded on the wall, and they
that bare burdens, with those that laded,
every one with one of his hands wrought
in the work, and with the other hand
held a weapon.'
"—The Acts of the Apos-
tles,
pages 596, 597.
13.
In contrast to the boasted
superiority of the Corinthian Chris-
tians, what was the experience of the
apostles who had brought Chris-
tianity to them? 1 Cor. 4:8-16.
Lesson 4, for January 22, 1966
Warnings Against Immorality
MEMORY VERSE:
"Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse
ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the
fear of God." 2 Cor. 7:1.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Adventist Home," pages 326-339; "Testimonies to Ministers,"
pages 444-456; "Testimonies," Vol.
2, pp. 390-411; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary."
STUDY AIM:
To
study the Biblical warnings against licentiousness.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Tuesday: Questions 8-10.
Sunday: Begin learning memory
verse; Introduction; questions
Wednesday: Questions 11, 12;
begin reading study helps.
1-3.
Thursday: Read study helps.
0
Monday: Questions 4-7.
Friday: Review the entire lesson.
[
14
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
1. A Shocking Case of Immorality
1.
The case identified. 1 Cor. 5:1.
2.
The action demanded. 1 Cor.
5:2-5.
3.
The danger of delayed action.
1 Cor. 5:6.
4.
Preparation for approaching feast.
1 Cor. 5:7, 8.
5.
Social relationships with the im-
moral to be avoided. 1 Cor. 5:9-13.
6.
Paul's counsel heeded. 2 Cor. 2:6.
7.
Charity toward the repentant.
2 Cor. 2:7, 8.
II. General Instructions Regarding
Purity
8.
A category of sins condemned.
1 Cor. 6:9, 10.
9.
Hope for the guilty. 1 Cor. 6:11.
10.
Sensuality incompatible with
Christianity. 1 Cor. 6:13, 15, 17.
11.
Counsel to the tempted. 1 Cor.
6:18-20.
12.
The Christian's motivation and
goal. 2 Cor. 7:1.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"Among the more serious of the evils
that had developed among the Corinthian
believers, was that of a return to many
of the debasing customs of heathenism.
One former convert had so far backslidden
that his licentious course was a violation
of even the low standard of morality held
by the Gentile world. The apostle pleaded
with the church to put away from among
them 'that wicked person.' Know ye not,'
he admonished them, 'that a little leaven
leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out
therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a
new lump, as ye are unleavened.'
"-The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages 303, 304.
A Shocking Case of Immorality
1. What shocking situation in the
Corinthian church had been reported
to Paul? 1 Cor. 5:1.
NOTE.-"In
this instance those who were
interested in the prosperity of the church
at Corinth, and who had seen evils creep-
ing in, had presented the matter before the
apostle, and from divine revelations which
he had formerly received he was prepared
to judge of the character of these develop-
ments. Notwithstanding the fact that the
Lord did not give him a new revelation
for that special time, those who were really
seeking for light accepted his message as
expressing the mind of Christ."-The
Acts
of the Apostles,
pages 302, 303.
2.
What had been the position of
the church members in this situation?
What should they have done? 1 Cor.
5:2-5.
3.
What consideration dictated such
prompt and drastic action? 1 Cor. 5:6.
NOTE.-"Why
! oh, why ! will men and
women who might be respectable and good
and reach heaven at last sell themselves
to the devil so cheap, wound their bosom
friends, disgrace their families, bring a re-
proach upon the cause, and go to hell at
last? God have mercy! Why will not those
who are overtaken in crime manifest re-
pentance proportionate to the enormity of
their crime and fly to Christ for mercy and
heal, as far as possible, the wounds they
have made
?"-The Adventist Home,
pages
346, 347.
4.
What preparation did Paul urge
the Corinthian believers to make for
the coming Passover feast? 1 Cor.
5:7,
8.
[ 15 ]
5.
What had been the subject of
a previous letter from Paul, and how
did he now explain the meaning of
his counsels? 1 Cor. 5:9-13.
NoTE.—"It is wrong for Christians to
associate with those whose morals are
loose. . . . If the moral atmosphere sur-
rounding persons is not pure and sancti-
fied, but is tainted with corruption, those
who breathe this atmosphere will find that
it operates almost insensibly upon the in-
tellect and heart to poison and to ruin.
It is dangerous to be conversant with those
whose minds naturally take a low level.
Gradually and imperceptibly those who are
naturally conscientious and love purity
will come to the same level and partake of
and sympathize with the imbecility and
moral barrenness with which they are so
constantly brought in contact."—The
Ad-
ventist Home,
page 462.
6.
What shows that the church
carried out Paul's counsel regarding
the incestuous person? 2 Cor. 2:6.
NoTE.—"The objective of church dis-
cipline had been accomplished; the offender
had repented, and it was now time to re-
store him to the confidence and fellowship
of his brethren. Christian discipline is a
work of love, not of vengeance. Its ob-
jective is not revenge, but restoration. It
must uphold the commandments of God
and maintain church order. It must safe-
guard the other members of the church and
protect the good name of the church, but
it should also, wherever possible, lead the
sinner to repentance. It must serve as a
warning to other potential offenders and a
deterrent to a repetition of the offense."—
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 2 Cor. 2:6.
7.
In
view of his repentance, what
action was the church now to take
toward him, and what attitude were
they to adopt? 2 Cor. 2:7, 8.
NOTE.—"Nothing can justify an unfor-
giving spirit. He who is unmerciful toward
others shows that he himself is not a par-
taker of God's pardoning grace. In God's
forgiveness the heart of the erring one is
drawn close to the great heart of Infinite
Love."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 251.
General Instructions Regarding
Purity
8.
Of what will unrepentant sin-
ners be deprived? 1 Cor. 6:9, 10.
NOTE.—"Do you not know that the un-
righteous will not inherit the kingdom of
God? Do not be deceived; neither the im-
moral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor
homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the greedy,
nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor robbers
will inherit the kingdom of God." 1 Cor.
6:9, 10, R.S.V.
"A terrible picture of the condition of
the world has been presented before me.
Immorality abounds everywhere. Licen-
tiousness is the special sin of this age.
Never did vice lift its deformed head with
such boldness as now. The people seem to
be benumbed, and the lovers of virtue and
true goodness are nearly discouraged by
its boldness, strength, and prevalence. The
iniquity which abounds is not merely con-
fined to the unbeliever and the scoffer.
Would that this were the case, but it is
not. Many men and women who profess
the religion of Christ are guilty. Even
some who profess to be looking for His
appearing are no more prepared for that
event than Satan himself. They are not
cleansing themselves from all pollution.
They have so long served their lust that it
is natural for their thoughts to be impure
and their imaginations corrupt."—The
Ad-
ventist Home,
page 328. See also
The De-
sire of Ages,
page 656.
9.
What can true religion do for
one guilty of impurity? 1 Cor. 6:11.
NOTE.—"There are many who, though
striving to obey God's commandments,
have little peace or joy. This lack in their
experience is the result of a failure to ex-
[ 16 ]
ercise faith. They walk as it were in a
salt land, a parched wilderness. They claim
little, when they might claim much; for
there is no limit to the promises of God.
Such ones do not correctly represent the
sanctification that comes through obedience
to the truth. The Lord would have all His
sons and daughters happy, peaceful, and
obedient. Through the exercise of faith
the believer comes into possession of these
blessings. Through faith, every deficiency
of character may be supplied, every de-
filement cleansed, every fault corrected,
every excellence developed."—The
Acts of
the Apostles,
pages 563, 564.
10.
By what line of argument did
Paul show that immorality is totally
unbecoming for the Christian? 1 Cor.
6:13, 15, 17.
NOTE.-"I
come again to Christians. If
all who profess to obey the law of God
were free from iniquity, my soul would be
relieved; but they are not. Even some who
profess to keep all the commandments of
God are guilty of the sin of adultery. What
can I say to arouse their, benumbed sen-
sibilities? Moral principle, strictly carried
out, becomes the only safeguard of the
soul."—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, p. 352.
11.
In view of the spiritually de-
structive nature of immorality, what
earnest appeal did Paul make? 1 Cor.
6:18-20.
NOTE.—"I speak to our people. If you
draw close to Jesus and seek to adorn
your profession by a well-ordered life and
godly conversation, your feet will be kept
from straying into forbidden paths. If you
will only watch, continually watch unto
prayer, if you will do everything as if
you were in the immediate presence of God,
you will be saved from yielding to temp-
tation and may hope to be kept pure, spot-
less, and undefiled till the last. If you hold
the beginning of your confidence firm unto
the end, your ways will be established in
God; and what grace has begun, glory
will crown in the kingdom of our God."
—The Adventist Home,
page 338.
12.
In his later letter, what did
Paul say should motivate the Chris-
tian to seek purity of life? 2 Cor. 7:1.
NOTE.—"God requires all who believe the
truth to make special, persevering efforts
to place themselves in the best possible
condition of bodily health, for a solemn
and important work is before us. Health of
body and mind is required for this work; it
is as essential to a healthy religious expe-
rience, to advancement in the Christian life
and progress in holiness, as is the hand or
foot to the human body. God requires His
people to cleanse themselves from all filth-
iness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting
holiness in the fear of the Lord. All those
who are indifferent and excuse themselves
from this work, waiting for the Lord to
do for them that which He requires them
to do for themselves, will be found want-
ing when the meek of the earth, who have
wrought His judgments, are hid in the day
of the Lord's
anger."—Testimonies,
Vol.
1, p. 619.
Lesson 5, for January 29, 1966
Counsels Concerning Marriage
MEMORY VERSE:
"Husbands,
love your wives, even as Christ also loved the
church, and gave Himself for it." Eph. 5:25.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Adventist Home," pages
105-134; "S.D.A.
Bible Commentary."
STUDY AIM:
To understand Paul's counsel to the Corinthians concerning various
aspects of marriage, and to apply this counsel to our present-day situation.
[17]
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND
RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Tuesday: Questions 7-9.
Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-
Wednesday: Questions 10-13.
0
duction; questions 1-3.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Monday: Questions 4-6.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Marriage Advised
1.
Paul's reply to the Corinthians'
question. 1 Cor. 7:1, 2.
2.
Responsibilities and privileges
of
marriage. 1 Cor. 7:3-5.
3.
Paul's advice qualified. 1 Cor.
7:6, 7.
II. Various Aspects of Marriage
Considered
4.
Counsel for the unmarried and
widows. 1 Cor. 7:8, 9, 26, 29.
5.
Counsel concerning divorce. 1 Cor.
7:10, 11.
6. Counsel concerning unbelieving
spouses. 1 Cor. 7:12-16.
III. Counsels Related to the Times
7. Paul's counsel in view of impending
distress. 1 Cor. 7:25-27.
8. Paul's counsel qualified. 1 Cor.
7:28.
9. Effects on conduct of awareness of
approaching end. 1 Cor. 7:29-31.
IV. Problems of Marriage
10. Anxieties about worldly affairs.
1 Cor. 7:32-35.
11. Problems of the betrothed. 1 Cor.
7:36-38.
12. Condition for remarriage. 1 Cor.
7:39, 40, first part.
13. Paul's authority for his counsel.
1 Cor. 7:40, last part.
THE LESSON
p. 411), were applicable to Christians. Some
in the church may have had no particular
desire to marry, and may have asked Paul
whether it would be acceptable for them to
remain single. If this query was the back-
ground of Paul's statement in ch. 7:1, then
the apostle was not giving general counsel
regarding the propriety of marriage, but
was simply informing this particular group
that it was perfectly proper to remain
single. Some Christians apparently be-
lieved that marriage was a sinful state,
which ought to be avoided and if possible
broken up. This would be an understand-
able reaction against the licentiousness that
was so common in Corinth at that time. In
their zeal to avoid anything in the nature
of fornication they might swing over to
the other extreme of complete abstention
from the marriage relation."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 7:1.
[ 18 ]
Introduction
"This verse [1 Cor. 7:1] begins a new
section of the epistle, in which there is a
discussion of certain questions that the
Corinthian church had asked Paul. The
letter containing these questions is not
extant, and it is possible for us only to
conjecture as to the range of its queries.
It would be most helpful, for example, to
know what, precisely, were the questions
relating to marriage. The interpretation of
the chapter depends in part upon the nature
of the problem presented in the letter to
him. It seems fitting that the topic of
marriage should be dealt with first, in
Paul's reply, in view of his earnest warn-
ing against fornication (chs. 5; 6). Then
there were probably those in Corinth who
wondered whether the rigid Jewish rules
that made it obligatory for all, at least
the men, to marry (see Mishnah
Yebamoth
6.6, Soncino ed. of the Talmud, Vol. 1,
Marriage Advised
1.
Concerning what subject had
the Corinthian believers written Paul,
and what advice did he give them?
1 Cor. 7:1, 2.
NOTE.—"Paul's recommendation of mar-
riage as a protection against fornication has
been regarded by some as a low concept
of marriage. But such persons fail to note
that because of a particular situation in
Corinth, Paul dealt only with the negative
side of the matter. He does not say that he
offers here the only reason for marriage.
He does not deny the positive elements,
and the blessings that marriage provides
(see on Matt. 19:12). Neander says of this
passage: 'We must not overlook the fact
that Paul is here not treating of marriage
in general, but only in its relation to the
condition of things at Corinth, where he
feared the effect of moral prejudices con-
cerning celibacy' (Lange)."—S.D
.A. Bible
Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 7:2.
2.
What responsibility should both
husband and wife recognize, and
under what circumstances only should
this responsibility temporarily be set
aside? 1 Cor. 7:3-5.
NOTE.—"In this verse the Greek offers
a variant reading which is important for
the interpretation. A.V. has: 'due benevo-
lence,' which respects the obligation of hus-
band and wife to each other. R.S.V. has
`her conjugal rights,' an expression clear
in itself. The second reading is undoubtedly
the right one. The apostle aims at disclaim-
ing the ascetic attitude as it was propagated
and practiced by some of the Corinthians
(cf. vs. 5). Paul reproves such an attitude.
Married people are supposed to live as
such, and each of them has the same rights
and the same obligations."—F. W. Gros-
heide,
Commentary on the First Epistle to
the Corinthians,
page 156 (copyright, 1953,
1960 printing).
"Those professing to be Christians . . .
should duly consider the result of every
privilege [NOTE: On another occasion Mrs.
White speaks of the "privacy and privileges
of the family relation." See
Testimonies,
Vol. 2, p.
90.—Compilers.]
of the marriage
relation, and sanctified principle should be
the basis of every action. . . .
"It is carrying that which is lawful to
excess that makes it a grievous sin."
The
Adventist Home,
page 122. Read
The Ad-
ventist Home
on "Marital Duties and Privi-
leges," pages 121-128.
3.
How did Paul qualify the nature
of his advice? 1 Cor. 7:6, 7.
NOTE.—"Commandment
is the reverse
of
concession
(2 Cor. 8:9). Paul does not
command every man and every woman to
marry. His
concession
is not a reluctant
admission but a full approbation. Here
again it is a question of right. The Chris-
tian possesses the right to marry. Normal
conditions dictate that he should use this
right. Still it remains a right,
i.e.,
there may
be circumstances in which it is not nec-
essary to use it. That is the case in vs. 7.
There is here no question of a command-
ment without any exception."—F. W. Gros-
heide,
Commentary on First Epistle to the
Corinthians,
page 158.
Various Aspects of Marriage
Considered
4.
What was Paul's counsel for the
unmarried and widows, and in the
light of what conviction is this coun-
sel to be understood? 1 Cor. 7:8, 9,
26, 29.
NOTE.—"Good" here is from the same
Greek word as in verse 1.
"Paul advises those who have undue
difficulty in keeping their sexual desires
under control, to marry rather than be
constantly subjected to the excitement of
unsatisfied desire. The instruction here is
plain and in harmony with the general tenor
of the preceding verses, namely, the pres-
ervation of purity and the best attitude
toward marriage (see vs. 2, 3, 5). Even
when all the problems associated with
married life during a period of persecution
[ 19 ]
and distress are taken into account (see
v. 26), it is better to marry than to be in-
wardly consumed with the mentally, emo-
tionally, and physically disturbing condition
of unsatisfied desire."—S.D
.A. Bible Com-
mentary,
on 1 Cor. 7:9.
5.
What was Paul's counsel regard-
ing divorce and whom did he quote
as authority? 1 Cor. 7:10, 11. Com-
pare Matt. 19:6-9.
NoTa.—"Every marriage engagement
should be carefully considered, for mar-
riage is a step taken for life. Both the man
and the woman should carefully consider
whether they can cleave to each other
through the vicissitudes of life as long as
they both shall
live."—The Adventist
Home,
page 340.
"A woman may be legally divorced from
her husband by the laws of the land and
yet not divorced in the sight of God and
according to the higher law. There is only
one sin, which is adultery, which can place
the husband or wife in a position where
they can be free from the marriage vow
in the sight of
God."—Ibid.,
p. 344.
6.
What was Paul's counsel to those
who had unbelieving spouses? 1 Cor.
7:12-16.
NoTE.—When Paul said "speak I, not the
Lord," he did not mean that he was speak-
ing without divine inspiration. He simply
meant that he could not refer to a specific
statement Jesus had made with reference
to the matter under consideration.
In the matter of mixed marriages, or
of marriages where one party had accepted
Christianity and the other had remained
a pagan, apparently the question had arisen
as to whether there was defilement in such
a relationship, and as to what was the
status of the children of such a union.
Verses 12 to 16 are an answer to these
queries. Such unions are not to be broken
by the Christian's taking the initiative,
and there is no problem so far as the legit-
imacy of the children is concerned.
Counsels Related to the Times
7.
In view of the "present distress,"
what was Paul's counsel to those who
had never been married? 1 Cor. 7:
25-27.
NOTE.—In the absence of any specific
command given by Jesus, the apostle gives
his own inspired judgment.
"Paul was doubtless referring to the im-
minence of a time of great trouble and
perplexity for the Christian community."—
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 7:26.
8.
How did Paul amplify his state-
ment so as to make clear that he was
not categorically prohibiting mar-
riage? 1 Cor. 7:28.
9.
What effect was the observation
that the "time is short" to have on
the believer's relationships? 1 Cor.
7:29-31.
NOTE.—"The
angels of God in their
messages to men represent time as very
short. Thus it has always been presented to
me. It is true that time has continued
longer than we expected in the early days
of this message. Our Saviour did not ap-
pear as soon as we hoped. But has the
word of the Lord failed? Never! It should
be remembered that the promises and
threatenings of God are alike conditional."
—Selected Messages,
Bk. 1, p. 67.
Problems of Marriage
10.
How did Paul contrast the pri-
mary interests of the married and the
unmarried? 1 Cor. 7:32-35.
11.
By what example did Paul fur-
ther show that marriage under certain
circumstances would be desirable?
1 Cor. 7:36-38.
20 ]
Nom—Commentators have been divided
as to whom the "he" in the clause "he
behaveth himself uncomely" refers. Some
believe it refers to the father of the virgin;
others to her fiancé. The passage may be
understood either way.
12.
In the case of remarriage, what
principle should be followed? 1 Cor.
7:39, 40, first part.
NoTE.—"It is only in Christ that a
marriage alliance can be safely formed.
Human love should draw its closest bonds
from divine love. Only where Christ reigns
can there be deep, true, unselfish affection."
—The Adventist Home,
page 68.
13.
Who guided Paul in his counsel
to the Corinthians regarding mar-
riage? 1 Cor. 7:40, last part.
NOTE.—"Have the Spirit.
There seems to
be a reference here to certain leaders in the
church at Corinth who believed they were
inspired. The apostle asserts his belief
that he, too, was under the inspiration of
the Holy Spirit. This statement is there-
fore a .claim that his letters are to be
received, not as the opinion of man, but
as the divinely ordained wisdom of the
living God. It was necessary that Paul
should clearly set forth his claim to divine
illumination. Thus only could he coun-
teract the instruction given by false teach-
ers at Corinth, and thus only could he lay
down regulations for the government of
the Corinthian believers that would fortify
them against the special temptations to
which they were exposed."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 7:40.
Lesson 6, for February 5, 1966
Relationships Between Church Members
MEMORY VERSE:
"Give none offense, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles,
nor to the church of God." 1 Cor. 10:32.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 304-315; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary."
STUDY AIM:
To derive from the Corinthians' experience and Paul's counsel to
them principles to govern relationships between church members.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbcith afternoon: General survey.
Tuesday: Questions 6-9.
0
Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-
Wednesday: Questions 10-12.
0
duction; questions 1-3.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Monday: Questions 4, 5; begin
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
reading study helps.
0
[21
1
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Problem of Foods Sacrificed
to Idols
1.
The problem introduced. 1 Cor.
8:1, first part.
2.
The wrong and right approach.
1 Cor. 8:1 (second part),
2,
3.
3.
The "knowledge" possessed by
some. 1 Cor. 8:4-7, first part.
4.
The weak conscience and the
exercise of liberty. 1 Cor. 8:7,
last part.
5.
The safe course to pursue. 1 Cor.
8:9-13.
II. General Principles in Relationships
Between Members
6.
The neighbor's good to be Chris-
tian's goal. 1 Cor. 10:24.
7.
Application of this principle under
specific circumstances. 1 Cor.
10:25-30.
8.
Generalization and enlargement of
principle. 1 Cor. 10:31, 32.
9.
Paul's example in following the
principle. 1 Cor. 10:33; 11:1.
III. Going to Court Against Fellow
Members Forbidden
10.
The Corinthians' audacious course.
1 Cor. 6:1, 6.
11.
The impropriety of the Corin-
thians' course. 1 Cor. 6:2-5.
12.
The proper course. 1 Cor. 6:7, 8.
THE LESSON
Introduction
An important aspect of the Christian
life is the development of proper relation-
ships between fellow Christians. Many of
the problems of the Corinthian church
had their origin in immature attitudes and
improper relationships. There was on the
part of the "strong," who boasted in their
knowledge and liberty, a reckless disre-
gard for the "weak."
"The apostle, 'in the most decided and
impressive manner, endeavored to correct
the false and dangerous ideas and prac-
tices that were prevailing in the Co-
rinthian church. He spoke plainly, yet
in love for their souls. In his warnings
and reproofs, light from the throne of
God was shining upon them, to reveal
the hidden sins that were defiling their
lives."—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 321.
The Problem of Foods Sacrificed
to Idols
1. Concerning what other matter
had the Christians made inquiry?
1 Cor. 8:1, first part.
NoTE.—"Intimately connected with the
question of circumcision were several others
demanding careful study. One was the
problem as to what attitude should be
taken toward the use of meats offered to
idols. Many of the Gentile converts were
living among ignorant and superstitious
people who made frequent sacrifices and
offerings to idols. The priests of this
heathen worship carried on an extensive
merchandise with the offerings brought to
them, and the Jews feared that the Gentile
converts would bring Christianity into
disrepute by purchasing that which had
been offered to idols, thereby sanctioning,
in some measure, idolatrous customs."—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 191.
2. What approach to the problem
had the Corinthians taken, and what
approach did Paul suggest? 1 Cor.
8:1 (second part), 2, 3.
Nom—The clause, "we all have knowl-
edge" may be quoted from the letter of
inquiry sent to Paul by the Corinthians.
By these words they may have attempted
to justify their course in eating foods
sacrificed to idols in spite of the •offense
such a course caused to the weaker breth-
ren, whom they despised as being scrupu-
lous. Paul condemns the purely intellectual
approach and appeals to love as the true
solution.
[22
1
3- What "knowledge" did some
Christians possess and others not?
1 Cor. 8:4-7, first part. Compare Hab.
2:18, 19; 1 Cor. 10:19.
NoTE.—The two phrases "an idol is
nothing in the world" and "there is none
other God but one" are doubtless quota-
tions from the Corinthians' letter. Paul
conceded the truth of these statements
and amplifies their meaning. The truth is
basic to Christian belief.
4.
What effect had the eating of
foods sacrificed to idols had on the
Christian who did not have this
"knowledge"? 1 Cor. 8:7, last part.
NOTE.—"There were some among the
church members who could not regard food
that had been sacrificed to idols as ordi-
nary food, even though they no longer
believed in the existence of idols. As a
result of lifelong custom they could not
completely dissociate themselves from the
past. Partaking of such food placed them
vividly in their former setting, a situation
that was more than they could bear."—
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 8:7.
5.
In view of the danger of offend-
ing the weak brother, what course
did Paul commend and himself fol-
low? 1 Cor. 8:9-13.
NOTE.—"To lead anyone to do that
which
he
thinks to be wrong is to place a
stone of stumbling in his way, even if we
do not think the act to be wrong. For
we make men worse if by our example
we teach them to act in contradiction of
their conscience. 'Let your motto be
for-
bearance,
not
privilege,
and your watch-
word
charity,
not
knowledge.
Never flaunt
your knowledge, seldom use your privilege'
(Evans)."—The
Pulpit Commentary,
Vol.
19, p. 265, on 1 Cor. 8:9.
General Principles in Relationships
Between Members
6.
What guiding principle did Paul
lay down for relationships between
members? 1 Cor. 10:24.
NOTE.—"The believer should not seek
first of all to gratify his own desires and
pleasures and conveniences; he ought to
consider first the welfare of others. Let
him ask himself the question, Will the
gratification of my own taste and inclina-
tions help or injure others? Many things
may be permissible, but their practice
might bring spiritual harm to others;
therefore it is the duty of the Christian
to abstain from them. In cases where
a certain thing is not positively forbidden
to a Christian, but where his example
would greatly influence others, he should
be guided in his behavior, not by his own
desires, comfort, or convenience, but by
consideration of the effect of his conduct
on others."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 10:24.
7.
What other circumstances did
Paul cite as giving possible occasion
for offense, and what course did he
commend? 1 Cor. 10:25-30.
NoTE.—We should note that the problem
here is one of meats (Gr.
bromata,
"foods")
sacrificed to idols, not one of clean versus
unclean foods. The distinction between
clean and unclean meats antedated Sinai
(Gen. 7:8, 9), and was not abolished at
the cross. This passage cannot be used to
show that all foods are lawful for the
Christian. Such an interpretation violates
the context.
8.
By what general principle should
the Christian guide his conduct?
1 Cor. 10:31, 32.
9.
What had been Paul's conduct,
and as a result what appeal could
he make? 1 Cor. 10:33; 11:1.
[28]
NOTE.—Knowing the natural inclination
of men to imitate others, Paul was deeply
conscious of his need to set the right ex-
ample for his converts to follow. The
church in Corinth was young, and the
believers needed someone to show them
how to walk the new "way." A Christian
leader should follow Christ so closely that
he may confidently and safely invite others
to follow him.
Going to Court Against Fellow
Members Forbidden
10. What course deserving censure
had some of the Corinthian believers
followed? 1 Cor. 6:1, 6.
NOTE.—"Another grave evil that had
arisen in the church was that of brethren
going to law against one another. Abundant
provision had been made for the settle-
ment of difficulties among believers. Christ
Himself had given plain instruction as
to how such matters were to be adjusted.
`If thy brother shall trespass against thee,'
the Saviour had counseled, 'go and tell
him his fault between thee and him alone:
if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy
brother. But if he will not hear thee,
then take with thee one or two more,
that in the mouth of two or three witnesses
every word may be established. And if he
shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the
church: but if he neglect to hear the church,
let him be unto thee as a heathen man and
a publican.'
"—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 304.
11.
What consideration should
have led to a different procedure
when there was trouble between be-
lievers? 1 Cor. 6:2-5.
12.
Rather than resort to litigation
in public courts, what should the
believer have been willing to un-
dergo? 1 Cor. 6:7, 8.
NOTE.—"Christians should not appeal
to civil tribunals to settle differences that
may arise among church members. Such
differences should be settled among them-
selves, or by the church, in harmony
with Christ's instruction. Even though in-
justice may have been done, the follower
of the meek and lowly Jesus will suffer
himself `to be defrauded' rather than open
before the world the sins of his brethren
in the church.
"Lawsuits between brethren are
a
re-
proach to the cause of truth. Christians
who go to law with one another expose
the church to the ridicule of her enemies
and cause the powers of darkness to
triumph. They are wounding Christ afresh
and putting Him to open shame. By
ignoring the authority of the church, they
show contempt for God, who gave to the
church its authority."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
pages 305, 306.
Lesson 7, For February 12, 1966
Profiting From Israel's Failure
MEMORY VERSE:
"Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and
they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are
come." 1 Cor. 10:11.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 315-318; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary."
STUDY AIM:
To apply the lessons from Israel's failure in the Exodus movement
to spiritual Israel today.
[
243
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Learn memory
verse;
Intro-
duction; questions 1-3.
Monday: Questions 4-9.
Check
Here
Tuesday: Questions 10-13.
Wednesday:
Begin study helps.
Thursday: Finish study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Israel's Privileges
1.
Safe passage through the sea.
1 Cor. 10:1.
2.
Mosaic leadership. 1 Cor. 10:2.
3.
Supernatural food and drink.
1 Cor. 10:3, 4.
II. Israel's Failure
4.
Majority overthrown. 1 Cor. 10:5.
5.
Israel's evil lusting a warning.
1 Cor. 10:6.
III. Specific Experiences Cited
6.
Idolatrous revelry
at Sinai. 1 Cor.
10:7.
7.
Fornication at Baalpeor. 1 Cor.
10:8.
8.
Putting the Lord to the test.
1 Cor. 10:9.
9.
Repeated grumbling. 1 Cor. 10:10.
IV. Instruction From Israel's Failure
10.
Instruction for our age. 1 Cor.
10:11.
11.
Warning for the overconfident.
1 Cor. 10:12.
12.
Encouragement for the tempted.
1 Cor. 10:13.
13.
Paul's severe self-discipline to
avoid failure. 1 Cor. 9:24-27.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"Paul pointed the Corinthians to the
experiences of ancient Israel, to the bless-
ings that rewarded their obedience, and to
the judgments that followed their trans-
gressions. He reminded them of the mirac-
ulous way in which the Hebrews were
led from Egpyt under the protection of
the cloud by day and the pillar of fire by
night. Thus they were safely conducted
through the Red Sea, while the Egyptians,
essaying to cross in like manner, were all
drowned. By these acts God had acknowl-
edged Israel as His church. They 'did
all eat the same spiritual meat ; and did
all drink the same spiritual drink: for
they drank of that spiritual Rock that
followed them: and that Rock was Christ.'
The Hebrews, in all their travels, had
Christ as a leader."-The
Acts of the
Apostles,
page 315.
Israel's Privileges
1.
To what experiences of Israel
did Paul refer as an illustration?
1 Cor. 10:1.
NoTE.-Paul is drawing lessons from the
period of the Exodus. As the Israelites
passed through the sea and wandered
through the wilderness on their way to the
Promised Land, so Christians today are
on their way to the heavenly promised
land. The same dangers still threaten, but
Israel's failure stands as a perpetual warn-
ing.
2.
How many of the Israelites had
experienced a form of "baptism"?
1 Cor. 10:2.
[ 25 ]
NoTE.—In preparation for his observa-
tion (verse 5) that the majority of the
Israelites never reached the Promised Land,
Paul is emphasizing the fact that all
crossed the sea, all were under the pillar
of cloud, all were in the same movement
together.
3.
In what other privileges had all
shared? 1 Cor. 10:3, 4.
NOTE.—"Spiritual" is here used in the
sense of "supernatural," or "miraculous."
The gifts of God are a manifestation of
His Spirit. Reference is here to the manna
and to the drinking of water from the
rock.
Israel's Failure
4.
Despite the advantages that had
been the lot of all those who left
Egypt, what had befallen the major-
ity and why? 1 Cor. 10:5.
NoTE.—It was not enough to belong to
the movement. The majority of those who
left Egypt never reached the Promised
Land. "And with whom was he provoked
forty years? Was it not with those who
sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilder-
ness?" (Heb. 3:17, R.S.V.)
5.
What lesson may the Christian
learn from Israel's repeated lusting
after "evil" things? 1 Cor. 10:6. Com-
pare Ex. 16:3; Num. 11:4, 5, 34.
NOTE.—"He [Paul] showed how love of
ease and pleasure had prepared the way
for sins that called forth the signal ven-
geance of God. It was when the children
of Israel sat down to eat and drink, and
rose up to play, that they threw off the
fear of God, which they had felt as they
listened to the giving of the law; and,
making a golden calf to represent God,
they worshiped it. And it was after enjoy-
ing a luxurious feast connected with the
worship of Baalpeor, that many of the
Hebrews fell through licentiousness. The
anger of God was aroused, and at His
command 'three and twenty thousand' were
slain by the plague in one
day."—The Acts
of the Apostles,
page 316.
Specific Experiences Cited
6.
Of what specific experience of
Israel did Paul first warn? 1 Cor. 10:7.
Compare Ex. 32:1-6.
NOTE.—"How often, in our own day,
is the love of pleasure disguised by a
`form of godliness'! A religion that per-
mits men, while observing the rites of
worship, to devote themselves to selfish or
sensual gratification, is as pleasing to the
multitudes now as in the days of Israel"—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 317.
7.
To what incident did Paul next
refer by way of warning? 1 Cor. 10:8.
Compare Num. 25:1-5.
NOTE.—"At Balaam's suggestion,
a
grand
festival in honor of their gods was ap-
pointed by the king of Moab, and it was
secretly arranged that Balaam should in-
duce the Israelites to attend. He was
regarded by them as a prophet of God,
and hence had little difficulty in accom-
plishing his purpose. Great numbers of
the people joined him in witnessing the
festivities. They ventured upon the for-
bidden ground, and were entangled in the
snare of Satan. Beguiled with music and
dancing, and allured by the beauty of
heathen vestals, they cast off their fealty
to Jehovah. As they united in mirth and
feasting, indulgence in wine beclouded
their senses and broke down the barriers
of self-control. Passion had full sway; and
having defiled their consciences by lewd-
ness, they were persuaded to bow down to
idols. They offered sacrifice upon heathen
altars and participated
in
the most de-
grading
rites."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 454.
8.
What lesson is
to
be learned
from the provocation that brought
the fiery serpents? 1 Cor. 10:9. Com-
pare Num. 21:4-6.
[26
]
NoTE.—"Again they failed to endure the
test of their faith and patience. By con-
tinually dwelling on the dark side of their
experiences, they separated themselves far-
ther and farther from God. They lost sight
of the fact that but for their murmuring
when the water ceased at Kadesh, they
would have been spared the journey around
Edom. God had purposed better things
for them. Their hearts should have been
filled with gratitude to Him that he had
punished their sin so lightly. But instead
of this, they flattered themselves that if
God and Moses had not interfered, they
might now have been in possession of the
Promised Land. After bringing trouble
upon themselves, making their lot alto-
gether harder than God designed, they
charged all their misfortunes upon Him.
Thus they cherished bitter thoughts con-
cerning His dealings with them, and finally
they became discontented with everything."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 428.
9.
What persistent attitude of Israel
should the Christian avoid? 1 Cor.
10:10. Compare Num.
13:32,
33; 14:
1-4, 37; 16:1-3, 31-33, 41, 46-50.
NOTE.—"But God does not want any to
walk mournfully before Him. Those who
thus complain of God have brought their
adversity on themselves. They have robbed
God, and His cause has been hindered be-
cause the money that should have flowed
into His treasury was used for selfish
purposes."—Testimonies,
Vol. 6, p. 389.
Instruction From Israel's Failure
10.
For what purposes have Israel's
experiences been recorded and pre-
served? 1 Cor. 10:11.
NOTE.—"The folly of Israel in disobey-
ing God led to their downfall in the
wilderness, and later in their history, to
their being carried captive to Babylon
(see Jer. 17:23, 27; 25:4-11). The warn-
ing to Christians to learn the lesson of
Israel's wilderness experience is peculiarly
appropriate in the light of the near ap-
proach of the second advent of Christ.
Many of the Israelites perished when they
had almost completed the journey to
Canaan (see Num. 25:9). They were the
people whom God had specially favored
by giving them knowledge of His law and
of Himself beyond any knowledge pos-
sessed by any other people in the world,
yet they failed to maintain their loyalty
to Him. Christians, to whom has been
entrusted the gospel of Jesus Christ, and
the prophetic knowledge of His soon
coming, should beware lest they allow the
delusions of sinful human nature to cause
them to fail of reaching the heavenly
Canaan."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on
1 Cor. 10:11.
11.
What lesson may be drawn
from Israel's repeated failures? 1 Cor.
10:12.
NOTE.—"Never can we safely put con-
fidence in self or feel, this side of heaven,
that we are secure against temptation,
Those who accept the Saviour, however
sincere their conversion, should never be
taught to say or to feel that they are
saved. This is misleading. Everyone should
be taught to cherish hope and faith ; but
even when we give ourselves to Christ
and know that He accepts us, we are not
beyond the reach of temptation. God's
Word declares, 'Many shall be purified,
and made white, and tried.' Dan. 12:10.
Only he who endures the trial will receive
the crown of
life."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 155.
12.
In the face of the record of
human failure, what encouragement
is given? 1 Cor. 10:13.
NOTE.—"God has not left us to battle
with evil in our own finite strength. What-
ever may be our inherited or cultivated
tendencies to wrong, we can overcome
through the power that He is ready to
impart."—The
Ministry of Healing,
pages
175, 176.
13.
In order to win the imperish-
able prize, what severe self-discipline
did Paul exercise? 1 Cor. 9:24-27.
[ 27 ]
Lesson 8, for February 19, 1966
Spiritual Gifts
MEMORY VERSE:
"So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of
our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Cor. 1:7.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Great Controversy," Introduction, pages v-xii; "S.D.A. Bible
Commentary."
STUDY AIM:
To learn what the Bible has to say about the place and function of
spiritual gifts in the church.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Tuesday: Questions 6-8.
Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-
Wednesday: Questions 9-11.
0
duction; questions 1-3.
Thursday: Questions 12, 13; read
Monday: Questions 4, 5; read from
from study helps.
study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Importance of Spiritual Gifts
1.
Informed Christians. 1 Cor. 12:1.
2.
Unity in variety. 1 Cor. 12:4-6.
3.
All Christians recipients. 1 Cor.
12:7.
II. Varieties of Gifts
4.
The gifts enumerated. 1 Cor. 12:
8-10.
5.
The gifts distributed according to
will of Spirit. 1 Cor. 12:11.
III. The Church Compared to a Body
6. Believers constitute the members.
1 Cor. 12:12-14.
7.
Variety of members needed.
1 Cor. 12:15-19.
8.
No member to
be depreciated.
1
Cor. 12:20-27.
IV. The Gifts Evaluated
9.
Enumerated in order of importance.
1 Cor. 12:28.
10.
Variety and distribution re-
emphasized. 1 Cor. 12:29, 30.
11.
Higher gifts to be desired. 1 Cor.
12:31.
12.
Prophecy the preferred gift.
1 Cor. 14:1.
13.
Prophecy superior to tongues.
1 Cor. 14:2-5.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"It would appear that the Corinthian
believers had asked a question concerning
the relative greatness of these gifts of the
Spirit, and that some of them had been
boasting that the gifts they had were
greater and more important than those
granted to other members (see 1 Cor. 12:
18-23). Paul took the opportunity thus
presented him, to give them instruction
in the subject of the work of the Spirit
in Christ's mystical body, His church.
The Holy Spirit of God has been in the
church from the beginning (see AA 37,
53 ; PP 593, 594 ; COL 218). Hence the
28
gifts of the Spirit
-
were not -confined to
NT times. This is evident from the fact
that many prophets existed in ancient
times. It is God's will and plan that His
church shall be empowered by gifts till
the end of time (Eph. 4:8, 11-13; AA 54,
55). The gifts are all from God; therefore
there can be no possible ground for the
human agent to boast over his fellows
because he has been favored of Heaven
as an instrument for the manifestation of
the power of God in a special way for the
benefit of the church as a whole."—S.D.A
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor. 12:1.
Importance of Spiritual Gifts
1.
What motivated Paul to dis-
course on spiritual gifts? 1 Cor. 12:1.
NOTE.—It is possible that in their letter
the Corinthians bad asked for a clari-
fication of the subject of spiritual gifts.
Paul is not discussing here the general
work of the Holy Spirit in conversion
and Christian living, but the special gifts
imparted by the Holy Spirit, especially
prophecy and tongues. These gifts were
abundant in the Corinthian church. They
came "behind in no gift." 1 Cor. 1:7.
In the early days of Christianity, when
leadership was needed for the rapidly
multiplying church, the multitude of
spiritual gifts qualifying the members for
service were especially useful and hence
were more widely distributed. But they
have never been withdrawn.
2.
Even though there are diver-
sities of gifts, wherein does unity lie?
1 Cor. 12:4-6.
NoTE.—It was important for Paul to
stress that God is the dispenser of all spiri-
tual gifts, because the Corinthians tended
to think less highly of some of them.
3.
To how many are the gifts
given and for what purpose? 1 Cor.
12:7.
NOTE.—The gifts were given "to profit
withal," that is, "for the common good"
(R.S.V.). They were not given as a ground
of boasting or a means of engendering an
attitude of superiority.
Varieties of Gifts
4.
Enumerate the various gifts
given by the Spirit. 1 Cor. 12:8-10.
NOTE.—"In modern usage, 'knowledge'
is the learning which we by use and effort
acquire; 'wisdom' is the insight which
gradually dawns upon us from thought
and experience. In the language of the
New Testament, the distinction between
the two words is not so clearly marked,
but 'wisdom' seems to belong more to the
human
spirit,
and 'knowledge' to the
in-
tellect.
The 'discourse of wisdom' would be
that which sets forth the truth of the
gospel persuasively to work conversion
(ch. ii. 6, 7) ; the 'discourse of knowledge'
would be that which enters into the spec-
ulative and theoretical elaboration of
systematic theology."—The
Pulpit Com-
mentary,
Vol. 19, pp. 397, 398, on 1 Cor.
12:8.
All who are saved have a measure of
faith. The "faith" to which the apostle
here refers is that trust in God that
brings special answers to prayer.
"The gifts of healing" represent the abil-
ity to heal by miracle, such as the apostles
exercised when they bade the sick to be
healed. This gift is to be distinguished from
healing through prayer, for all have the
privilege of requesting God to heal the sick
or of calling for the elders of the church
and having them pray for recovery.
"Working of miracles" refers to work-
ing of miracles in general, beyond those
or including those of healing.
"Prophecy" is the gift exercised by
God's special spokesmen, the prophets.
"Discerning of spirits" is the ability
to distinguish between genuine and pur-
ported, but false, divine messages.
"Tongues" is the gift discussed at length
in 1 Corinthians 14. There is insufficient
time in this lesson to study the gift in
detail. However, there is need for Chris-
tians to be guarded against satanic delu-
29 I
sions, especially in so-called "tongues"
manifestations. (For those who wish to
study further on "tongues" see
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, pp. 795; 796;
Testimonies,
Vol. 1, pp. 412, 414, 419.)
"Interpretation of tongues" is the gift
that enables its possessor to interpret the
message that comes through the exercise of
the gift of tongues.
5.
According to whose will are the
gifts distributed? 1 Cor. 12:11.
The Church Compared to a Body
6.
To what are the members of the
church compared? 1 Cor. 12:12-14.
7.
How did Paul illustrate the need
for a variety of gifts? 1 Cor. 12:
15-19.
NOTE.—"In scenery and in paintings we
do not love monotony. A fair landscape
possesses almost infinite variety of tint
and form; that is not a painting which is
composed of one color, however brilliant.
The Church is enriched by the diversities
in condition, age, ability, of its members.
Yet though one member differ strikingly
from another, all are
equally
of the body
(ver. 15). We must not despair because we
are unlike some other Christians; if all
the members of the body were as even the
chief and most honored members, the sym-
metry, usefulness, and beauty of the body
would be greatly impaired (ver. 17). We
must not seek to occupy a place for which
we are not fitted. We are admitted to the
body of Christ by God, and
He places us
(ver. 18).
We
must not move; if we are
to be moved,
He
will move us. To choose
a place for ourselves would be to put
ourselves out of place."—The
Pulpit Com-
mentary,
Vol. 19, p. 412.
8.
By what forceful illustration did
Paul show that no gift or its posses-
sor was to be depreciated? 1 Cor. 12:
20-27.
The Gifts Evaluated
9.
In what order of importance did
Paul reenumerate the gifts? 1 Cor.
12:28.
NOTE.—The list of gifts in verses 8 to
10 is obviously not complete, or at least
not the only classification. In verse 28,
apostles and teachers are mentioned, the
former represented by the gift possessed
by the Twelve, the latter a gift of ex-
position, and the ability to make the
divine message understandable to others.
The "helps" were probably gifts such as
deacons possessed, and the "governments"
the gifts of administration.
10.
How did Paul reemphasize the
point that there are a variety of gifts,
and that these are distributed among
the members? 1 Cor. 12:29, 30.
11.
What was to be the believers'
attitude toward the gifts? 1 Cor.
12:31.
NoTE.—Apparently additional gifts could
be acquired and could be sought after.
12.
Of the various gifts, which was
to be preferred above the others?
1 Cor. 14:1. Compare 1 Thess. 5:20.
NoTE.—Because of the sensational char-
acter of the gift of tongues, the Corin-
thians tended to place undue esteem upon
this gift, and to depreciate the gift of
prophecy. Paul urges that prophecy be
sought above others.
13.
In what way was prophecy
superior to the gift of tongues? 1 Cor.
14:2-5.
[ 30 ]
Lesson 9, for February 26, 1966
Love, the More Excellent Way
MEMORY VERSE:
"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the
greatest of these is charity." 1 Cor. 13:13.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 318, 319, 321; Ellen G. White
Comments, "S.D.A. Bible Commentary," Vol. 6, pp. 1090-1092; also on lesson
scriptures.
STUDY AIM:
To discover the true meaning of love in both its negative and
positive aspects.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-
duction; questions 1-4.
Monday: Questions 5-7.
Tuesday: Questions 8-10.
Wednesday: Questions 11-13.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Excellence of Love
1.
Love more excellent than the gifts.
1 Cor. 12:31.
2.
Eloquence valueless without love.
1 Cor. 13:1.
3.
Spiritual gifts valueless without
love. 1 Cor. 13:2.
4.
Philanthropy and martyrdom
valueless without love. 1 Cor. 13:3
II. Love Defined
5. Love defined positively. 1 Cor.
13:4, first part.
6.
Love defined negatively. 1 Cor.
13:4, last part.
7.
Love further defined negatively.
1 Cor. 13:5.
8.
Love's relationship to right and
wrong. 1 Cor. 13:6.
9.
Further attributes of love. 1 Cor.
13:7.
III. The Permanence of Love
10.
Permanence contrasted with that of
spiritual gifts. 1 Cor. 13:8.
11.
Temporary nature of the gifts.
1 Cor. 13:9-11.
12.
Nature of future and present
knowledge contrasted. 1 Cor.
13:12.
13.
Love's preeminence. 1 Cor. 13:13.
THE LESSON
Introduction
The word translated "charity" in 1 Co-
rinthians is the Greek word
agape, which
in the K.J.V. is generally translated "love,"
and should be so translated there also.
"Agape
was formerly thought to be a
distinctly Christian term, for no example
of it in secular Greek sources had been
discovered. Now, however, several un-
questioned examples of its use outside of
early Christian literature have been found.
However, the paucity of such examples, and
the frequency of
agape
in Christian liter-
ature show that Christians especially
adopted this term to describe the higher
concept of love revealed in the gospel.
God is
agape
(1
Jn 4:7, 8), and His love
and that of Christ for men is represented
by the term
agape
(Rom 5:8; Eph 2:4;
[ 31 ]
1 Jn 3:1; etc.).
Agape
also describes the
relation between God and Christ (Jn 15:
10; 17:26). It is used of human love
(Jn 3:35; Rom 12:9; etc.), and is listed
as a fruit of the Spirit, being the first of
the fruits mentioned (Gal 5:22). The
classic definition of
agape
is found in 1 Cor
13. After listing various spiritual gifts
and attainments (ch 12), the apostle notes
that love is the 'more excellent way' (v
31). Of the abiding qualities of faith,
hope, and love, he lists love as the greatest
(ch 13:13). In this and several other
passages the KJV translates
agape,
'char-
ity.' When the KJV was produced,
`charity' did not have the restricted mean-
ing it often has today, and because of its
use in this passage it has come to mean
`divine love,' love in its perfection!"—
S.D.A.
Bible Dictionary,
page 663.
The Excellence of Love
1.
After having presented the place
and function of spiritual gifts in the
church, what did Paul proceed to
show? 1 Cor. 12:31.
2.
What abilities did Paul present
as meaningless without love? 1 Cor.
13:1.
6. What is love declared not to
be? 1 Cor. 13:4, last part.
pronounces it altogether lighter than van-
ity."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1091.
3. How did Paul express the fu-
tility of even the higher gifts of the
Spirit without love? 1 Cor. 13:2.
4. What self-sacrificing acts are
without profit unless love is present?
1 Cor. 13:3.
NOTE.—"No value is attached to a mere
profession of faith in Christ; only the
love which is shown by works is counted
genuine. Yet it is love alone which in the
sight of Heaven makes any act of value.
Whatever is done from love, however
small it may appear in the estimation of
men, is accepted and rewarded of God."—
The Great Controversy,
page 487.
Love Defined
5. Positively, what is love declared
to be? 1 Cor. 13:4, first part.
NOTE.—"It is not the ready speaker, the
sharp intellect, that counts with God. It
is the earnest purpose, the deep piety, the
love of truth, the fear of God, that has a
telling influence. A testimony from the
heart, coming from lips in which is no
guile, full of faith and humble trust, though
given by a stammering tongue, is accounted
of God as precious as gold; while the
smart speech, the eloquent oratory, of the
one to whom is entrusted large talents,
but who is wanting in truthfulness, in
steadfast purpose, in purity, in unselfish-
ness, are as sounding brass and
a
tinkling
cymbal. He may say witty things, he may
relate amusing anecdotes, he may play upon
the feelings; but the spirit of Jesus is not in
it. All these things may please unsancti-
fied hearts, but God holds in His hands
the balances that weigh the words, the
spirit, the sincerity, the devotion, and He
7.
What other characteristics are
not a part of love? 1 Cor. 13:5.
NOTE.—"Love is an active principle; it
keeps the good of others continually before
us, thus restraining us from inconsiderate
actions lest we fail of our object in win-
ning souls to Christ. Love seeks not its
own. It will not prompt men to seek their
own ease and indulgence of self. It is the
respect we render to I that so often hinders
the growth of
love."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5,
p. 124.
8.
What is love's relationship to
right and wrong? 1 Cor. 13:6.
[32]
NOTE.—"He whose heart is imbued with
love is filled with sorrow at the errors and
weaknesses of others; but when truth tri-
umphs, when the cloud that darkened the
fair fame of another is removed, or when
sins are confessed and wrongs corrected,
he
rejoices."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 169.
9. How far-reaching is love in its
endurance and trust? 1 Cor. 13:7.
NoTE.—"Love
not only
bears with
others' faults, but cheerfully submits to
whatever suffering or inconvenience such
forbearance makes necessary. This love
`never faileth.' It can never lose its value;
it is the attribute of heaven. As a precious
treasure it will be carried by its possessor
through the portals of the City of God."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 5, R. 169.
"The active virtues must be cultivated
as well as the passive. The Christian,
while he is ever ready to give the soft
answer that turneth away wrath, must
possess the courage of a hero to resist
evil. With the charity that endureth all
things, he must have the force of character
which will make his influence a positive
power for good."—Ibid., p. 404.
"Love is a plant of heavenly origin, and
if we would have it flourish in our hearts,
we must cultivate it daily. Mildness,
gentleness, long-suffering, not being easily
provoked, bearing all things, enduring all
things—these are the fruits upon the pre-
cious tree of love."—Ellen G. White Com-
ments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6,
pp. 1091, 1092.
The Permanence of Love
10.
When contrasted with the gifts
of prophecy, tongues, and knowledge,
how enduring is love? 1 Cor. 13:8.
11.
Why will the gifts eventually
cease to be needed, and how did Paul
illustrate their temporary nature?
1 Cor. 13:9-11.
12.
What further contrast between
this present world and the next world
did Paul draw? 1 Cor. 13:12.
NOTE.—"The education begun here will
not be completed in this life; it will be
going forward throughout eternity, ever
progressing, never completed. Day by day
the wonderful works of God, the evidences
of His miraculous power in creating and
sustaining the universe, will open before
the mind in new beauty. In the light that
shines from the throne, mysteries will dis-
appear, and the soul will be filled with
astonishment at the simplicity of the things
that were never before comprehended."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 8, p. 328.
"There, when the veil that darkens our
vision shall be removed, and our eyes
shall behold that world of beauty of which
we now catch glimpses through the micro-
scope; when we look on the glories of the
heavens, now scanned afar through the
telescope; when, the blight of sin removed,
the whole earth shall appear in 'the beauty
of the Lord our God,' what a field will be
open to our study! There the student of
science may read the records of creation
and discern no reminders of the law of
evil. He may listen to the music of
nature's voices and detect no note of wail-
ing or undertone of sorrow. In all created
things he may trace one handwriting—in
the vast universe behold 'God's name writ
large,' and not in earth or sea or sky one
sign of ill remaining."—Education, page
303.
13.
How did Paul summarize his
discourse on love? 1 Cor. 13:13.
"If we would study the Bible
diligently and prayerfully
every day, we should every
day see some beautiful truth
in a new, clear, and forcible
light."—Counsels on Sabbath
School Work,
page 23.
C 33
Lesson 10, for March 5, 1966
The Hope of the Resurrection
MEMORY VERSE:
"Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we
shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last
trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible,
and we shall be changed." 1 Cor. 15:51, 52.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Great Controversy," pages 637-647 (1927 ed., pp. 719-729;
1950 ed., pp. 628-637); "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
STUDY AIM:
To review Paul's arguments for a resurrection and to discover the
importance of the doctrine of the resurrection to the outworking of the
divine plan.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Learn memory verse;
Introduction; questions 1-3.
Monday: Questions 4-8.
Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The False Doctrine of "No Resur-
rection"
1.
Some Corinthian believers denied
resurrection. 1 Cor. 15:12.
2.
Necessary corollaries if these con-
tenders were right. 1 Cor. 15:14-18.
3.
Christians' pitiable situation with-
out hope of resurrection. 1 Cor.
15:19.
II. The Christian Doctrine of the
Resurrection
4.
Statement of doctrine. 1 Cor.
15:20-22.
5.
Time of the resurrection. 1 Cor.
15:23.
6.
Every enemy destroyed. 1 Cor.
15:24-28.
7. Faith in resurrection gives forti-
tude in affliction. 1 Cor. 15:30-32,
first part.
8. Danger of disbelief. 1 Cor. 15:32
(last part), 33, 34.
III. Nature of the Resurrection
9. Variously illustrated. 1 Cor. 15:
35-41.
10. Natural and resurrection bodies
contrasted. 1 Cor. 15:42-49.
11. A reason for change in bodies.
1 Cor. 15:50.
IV. Events Associated With the
Resurrection
12. Translation of living saints. 1 Cor.
15:51-53.
13. Victory of that moment. 1 Cor.
15:54, 55.
14. Victory centered in Christ.
1 Cor. 15:56, 57.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"In the lowering of the moral standard
among the Corinthian believers, there were
those who had given up some of the fun-
damental features of their faith. Some had
gone so far as to deny the doctrine of
the resurrection. Paul met this heresy
with a very plain testimony regarding
the unmistakable evidence of the resur-
[ 34
rection of Christ."—The
Acts of the Apos-
tles,
pages 319, 320.
"Thus far Paul has treated only those
abuses which prevailed in the whole Co-
rinthian church, either because he had
heard of them himself or because the
Corinthians had asked for information. In
chapter 15, however, Paul treats the resur-
rection of the body, of which he expressly
states (vs. 12) that the latter is denied
only by some among the Corinthians. Be-
sides, we have here the first error of a
doctrinal nature. According to vs. 12 this
was not a system of error but rather a
single contention, on one point only.
But nevertheless we are here in the realm
of doctrine."—F. W. Grosheide,
Commen-
tary on the First Epistle to the Corinthians,
pages 346, 347.
The False Doctrine of
"No Resurrection"
1.
What were some of the Corin-
thian believers affirming? 1 Cor.
15:12.
2.
If what they affirmed were true,
what else would also be true? 1 Cor.
15:14-18.
NOTE.—"If for four thousand years the
righteous had gone directly to heaven at
death, how could Paul have said that if
there is no resurrection, 'they also which
are fallen asleep in Christ are perished'?
No resurrection would be necessary."—The
Great Controversy,
pages 546, 547.
3.
What would be the Christian's
condition if there were no hope of
life after death? 1 Cor. 15:19.
NOTE.—"It should be noted that Paul
is not here suggesting that piety and con-
formity to the revealed will of God in
this life are not accompanied by happiness.
The believer has cause to be happier than
other men, but if the resurrection is a
delusion, then Christians are more deserv-
ing of pity than any other people. No
others have had such high hopes of enjoy-
ing eternity, so no others could experience
so deep disappointment if those hopes are
destroyed by disproving the resurrection."
—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on 1 Cor.
15:19.
The Christian Doctrine
of the Resurrection
4.
In what positive way did Paul
affirm the Christian's faith in the
resurrection of Christ and of man?
1 Cor. 15:20-22.
NOTE.—"The resurrection of Jesus was
a sample of the final resurrection of all
who sleep in Him. The risen body of the
Saviour, His deportment, the accents of
His speech, were all familiar to His fol-
lowers. In like manner will those who
sleep in Jesus rise again. We shall know
our friends even as the disciples knew
Jesus. Though they may have been de-
formed, diseased, or disfigured in this mor-
tal life, yet in their resurrected and glorified
body their individual identity will be
perfectly preserved, and we shall recognize,
in the face radiant with the light shining
from the face of Jesus, the lineaments of
those we love."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1092.
5.
At what point in time will the
resurrection of the true believers
occur? 1 Cor. 15:23.
NOTE.—"The voice that cried from the
cross, 'It is finished,' was heard among
the dead. It pierced the walls of sepulchers,
and summoned the sleepers to arise. Thus
will it be when the voice of Christ shall
be heard from heaven. That voice will
penetrate the graves and unbar the tombs,
and the dead in Christ shall arise. At the
Saviour's resurrection a few graves were
opened, but at His second coming all the
precious dead shall hear His voice, and
shall come forth to glorious, immortal life.
The same power that raised Christ from the
dead will raise His church, and glorify it
with Him, above all principalities, above
[35]
all powers, above every name that is
named, not only in this world, but also
in the world to come."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 787.
6.
In the establishment of the final
kingdom under God the Father, what
is the last enemy to be destroyed?
1 Cor. 15:24-28.
7.
What hope made Paul willing
to risk all for Christ? 1 Cor. 15:30-
32, first part.
NorE.—"I die daily:
the sense is not
that Paul is every day in danger of life,
for that had been said in vs. 30. Paul
wishes to indicate that so far as he is
concerned he abandons life daily; he knows
that he may die, and so he continually
prepares himself for death. If he, in order
to do his work, has to meet with mortal
danger, he does not hesitate (Acts
25:11)."
F. W. Grosheide,
Commentary on the First
Epistle to the Corinthians,
page 374.
8.
What dangerous philosophy may
develop from disbelief in the resur-
rection, and what strong warning
did Paul give? 1 Cor. 15:32 (last
part), 33, 34.
Nature of the Resurrection
9.
By what illustrations did Paul
show that the resurrected body will
be different from the earthly body?
1 Cor. 15:35-41.
NorE.—"Our personal identity is pre-
served in the resurrection, though not the
same particles of matter or material sub-
stance as went into the grave. The won-
drous works of God are a mystery to
man. The spirit, the character of man, is
returned to God, there to be preserved.
In the resurrection every man will have
his own character. God in His own time
will call forth the dead, giving again the
breath of life, and bidding the dry bones
live. The same form will come forth, but
it will be free from disease and every de-
fect. It lives again bearing the same in-
dividuality of features, so that friend will
recognize friend. There is no law of God
in nature which shows that God gives
back the same identical particles of matter
which composed the body before death.
God shall give the righteous dead a body
that will please Him."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol.
6, p. 1093.
10.
How did Paul further contrast
the two bodies? 1 Cor. 15:42-49.
NorE.—"The mortal, corruptible form
devoid of comeliness, once polluted with
sin, becomes perfect, beautiful, and im-
mortal. All blemishes and deformities are
left in the grave. Restored to the tree of
life in the long-lost Eden, the redeemed
will 'grow up' (Malachi 4:2) to the full
stature of the race in its primeval glory.
The last lingering traces of the curse of
sin will be removed, and Christ's faithful
ones will appear in 'the beauty of the
Lord our God,' in mind and soul and
body reflecting the perfect image of their
Lord."—The
Great Controversy,
page 645.
11.
Why is it necessary for the
present body to be changed? 1 Cor.
15:50.
NorE.—"Paul illustrates this subject by
the kernel of grain sown in the field. The
planted kernel decays, but there comes
forth a new kernel. The natural substance
in the grain that decays is never raised
as before, but God giveth it a body as it
hath pleased Him. A much finer material
will compose the human body, for it is
a new creation, a new birth. It is sown
a natural body, it is raised a spiritual
body."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1093.
[ 36
]
Events Associated With
the Resurrection
12. What will be the experience
of Christians who are alive when
Jesus conies? 1 Cor. 15:51-53.
NOTE.—"The living righteous are changed
'in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.'
At the voice of God they were glorified;
now they are made immortal and with the
risen saints are caught up to meet their
Lord in the air. Angels 'gather together
His elect from the four winds, from one
end of heaven to the other.' Little children
are borne by holy angels to their mothers'
arms. Friends long separated by death are
united, nevermore to part, and with songs
of gladness ascend together to the City of
God."—The
Great Controversy,
page 645.
13.
What scripture will be fulfilled
at that glorious moment? 1 Cor. 15:
54, 55.
NoTE.—"There stands the risen host. The
last thought was of death and its pangs.
The last thoughts they had were of the
grave and the tomb, but now they pro-
claim, '0 death, where is thy sting?' . . .
"Here they stand, and the finishing touch
of immortality is put upon them, and they
go up to meet their Lord in the air. The
gates of the City of God swing back upon
their hinges, and the nations that have
kept the truth enter in."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol.
6, p. 1093.
14.
In whom does the Christian's
victory center? 1 Cor. 15:56, 57.
Lesson 11, for March 12, 1966
Fortitude in Affliction
MEMORY VERSE:
"For our light affliction, which is but
for a moment, worketh
for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." 2 Cor. 4:17.
STUDY HELPS:
"Education,"
pages 154-158; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
STUDY AIM: To develop from Paul's discussion of various aspects of human
suffering a mature Christian philosophy of suffering.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon:
General survey.
Sunday: Learn memory
verse;
Introduction;
questions 1-3.
Monday: Questions 4-6.
Tuesday: Questions 7-10.
Wednesday: Questions 11-13.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
0
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Blessing in Affliction
1. Comfort in affliction. 2 Cor 1:3,
4, first part.
2.
Comfort shared. 2 Cor. 1:4
(second part), 5.
3.
Paul's selfless ministry. 2 Cor.
1:6, 7.
II. Affliction in Asia
4.
Intense nature of affliction. 2 Cor.
1:8.
371
5. Teaching value of affliction.
2 Cor. 1:9, 10.
6. Prayer for the afflicted. 2 Cor.1:11.
III. Triumph in Affliction
7. Courage in affliction. 2 Cor.
4:8-11.
8. Hope of resurrection braces for
trial. 2 Cor. 4:14, 15; 5:1.
9. Inward victory despite outward
affliction. 2 Cor. 4:16.
10.
Hope of ultimate reward tempers
trial. 2 Cor. 4:17, 18.
IV. Paul's Bodily Affliction
11.
Purpose of Paul's bodily affliction.
2 Cor.
12:7.
12.
Request for healing denied.
2 Cor. 12:8, 9, first part.
13.
Mature Christian attitude toward
suffering. 2 Cor. 12:9 (last part),
10.
THE LESSON
trouble. It includes all that a loving heav-
enly Father can do for His earthborn chil-
dren. See on Matt. 5:4. To the Christian,
tribulation plays an important role in the
perfection of chalicter (cf. Heb. 2:10). By
themselves, suffering and tribulation have
no power to make men Christlike. In fact,
they make many men morose and bitter.
But God sanctifies tribulation, and those
who find in Him grace and strength to en-
dure have solved one of the great problems
of life."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 2
Cor. 1:4.
Introduction
"The mysterious providence which per-
mits the righteous to suffer persecution at
the hand of the wicked has been a cause
of great perplexity to many who are weak
in faith. Some are even ready to cast away
their confidence in God because He suffers
the basest of men to prosper, while the
best and purest are afflicted and tormented
by their cruel power. How, it is asked,
can One who is just and merciful, and
who is also infinite in power, tolerate such
injustice and oppression? This is a ques-
tion with which we have nothing to do.
God has given us sufficient evidence of
His love, and we are not to doubt His
goodness because we cannot understand
the workings of His providence. Said the
Saviour to His disciples, foreseeing the
doubts that would press upon their souls
in days of trial and darkness: 'Remember
the word that I said unto you, The servant
is not greater than his lord. If they have
persecuted Me, they will also persecute
you.' John 15:20. Jesus suffered for us
more than any of His followers can be
made to suffer through the cruelty of
wicked men. Those who are called to en-
dure torture and martyrdom are but fol-
lowing in the steps of God's dear Son."—
The Great Controversy,
page 47.
Blessing in Affliction
1. In his afflictions, what blessing
from God did Paul experience? 2 Cor.
1:3, 4, first part.
NOTE.—"More is included in this term
than mere consolation in sorrow or in
2.
What did this blessing from God
enable Paul to do for others? 2 Cor.
1:4 (second part), 5.
NOTE.—"The apostle Paul thanked God
for the comfort given him in sorrow, say-
ing: 'Blessed be . . . the God of all comfort;
who comforteth us in all our tribulation,
that we may be able to comfort them
which are in any trouble, by the comfort
wherewith we ourselves are comforted of
God.' As Paul felt the comfort and warmth
of God's love breaking into his soul, he
reflected the blessing upon others. Let
us so order our conduct that the pictures
hung upon the walls of our memory may
not be of such a character that we can-
not endure to reflect upon
them."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 5, p. 489.
3.
How selflessly was Paul devoted
to the service of others? 2 Cor. 1:
6, 7.
NOTE.—"Not for the wages we receive
are we to labor. The motive that prompts
L 38
2
us to work for God should have in it
nothing akin to self-serving. Unselfish de-
votion and a spirit of sacrifice have always
been and always will be the first requisite
of acceptable service. Our Lord and
Master designs that not one thread of
selfishness shall be woven into His work.
Into our efforts we are to bring the tact
and skill, the exactitude and wisdom, that
the God of perfection required of the
builders of the earthly tabernacle; yet in
all our labors we are to remember that
the greatest talents or the most splendid
services are acceptable only when self is
laid upon the altar, a living, consuming
sacrifice."—Prophets
and Kings,
page 65.
Affliction in Asia
4.
To what particular affliction did
Paul call the Corinthians' attention?
2 Cor. 1:8. Compare 1 Cor. 15:32.
Nom—The affliction here referred to
has not been clearly identified. It may
have been some severe mental struggle,
caused in part, at least, by the conditions
in the Corinthian church. Fighting with the
beasts at Ephesus (1 Cor. 15:32) is gen-
erally regarded as a figurative expression,
probably describing this same severe men-
tal conflict.
5.
What valuable lesson did Paul
learn from this experience? 2 Cor.
1:9, 10.
6.
In view of his affliction what did
Paul ask the Corinthians to do? 2 Cor.
1:11.
Triumph in Affliction
7.
Instead of losing heart over his
affliction, what triumphant experience
had Paul gained? 2 Cor. 4:8-11.
NOTE.—"As you review the past with a
clear vision, you will see that at the very
time when life seemed to you only a per-
plexity and a burden, Jesus Himself was
near you, seeking to lead you into the
light. Your Father was by your side, bend-
ing over you with unutterable love, afflict-
ing you for your good, as the refiner
purifies the precious ore. When you have
thought yourself forsaken, He has been
near you to comfort and sustain. We
seldom view Jesus as He is, and are never
so ready to receive His help as He is to
help
us."—Testimonies,
Vol. 4, pp. 220,
221.
8.
What hope enabled Paul to face
even death courageously? 2 Cor. 4:
14, 15; 5:1.
9.
In spite of outward affliction,
what may be the Christian's experi-
ence within? 2 Cor. 4:16.
10.
The recognition of what con-
trast should lead the Christian toward
a mature attitude toward suffering?
2 Cor. 4:17, 18. Compare Rom. 8:18.
NOTE.—"If Paul, troubled on every side,
perplexed, persecuted, could call his trials
light afflictions, of what has the Christian
of today to complain? How trifling are our
trials in comparison with Paul's many af-
flictions! They are not worthy to be
compared with the eternal weight of glory
awaiting the overcomer. They are God's
workmen, ordained for the perfection of
character. However great the deprivation
and suffering of the Christian, however
dark and inscrutable may seem the way
of Providence, he is to rejoice in the
Lord, knowing that all is working for his
good. . . .
"The years of self-denial, of privation, of
trial, affliction, and persecution that Paul
endured, he called a moment. The things
of the present time were not considered
worth mentioning when compared with
the eternal weight of glory that awaited
them when the warfare should be over.
These very afflictions were God's work-
men, ordained for the perfection of
Christian character. Whatever may be
the circumstances of the Christian, how-
[ 39 ]
ever dark and mysterious may be the ways
of Providence, however great his depri-
vation and suffering, he may look away
from them all to the unseen and the
eternal."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1099.
Paul's Bodily Affliction
11.
What purpose did Paul recog-
nize in a particular bodily affliction?
2 Cor. 12:7.
NOTE.—"Paul had
a
bodily affliction;
his eyesight was bad. He thought that
by earnest prayer the difficulty might be
removed. But the Lord had His own
purpose, and He said to Paul, Speak to Me
no more of this matter. My grace is
sufficient. It will enable you to bear the
infirmity."—Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1107.
12.
When Paul sought release from
this affliction, what answer came to
him? 2 Cor. 12:8, 9. first part.
Nora.—"A deep sadness still rested upon
the mind and heart of Paul because of
his apprehensions concerning the Corin-
thian church. While at Philippi he com-
menced his second epistle to them, for
they hung as a heavy weight upon his
soul. The depression of spirits from which
the apostle suffered was, however, at-
tributable in a great degree to bodily
infirmities, which made him very restless
when not engaged in active service. But
when working for the salvation of souls,
he rose superior to physical debility. He
felt that the disease under which he suf-
fered was a terrible impediment to him
in his great work, and repeatedly besought
the Lord to relieve him. God did not see
fit to answer his prayers in this respect,
though He gave him assurance that divine
grace should be sufficient for him."—Ellen
G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1107.
13.
What victorious attitude
toward suffering did this experience
lead him to take? 2 Cor. 12:9 (last
part), 10.
Lesson 12, for March 19, 1966
Christian Liberality
MEMORY VERSE:
"For
ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though
He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty
might be rich." 2 Cor. 8:9.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 335-345; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary."
STUDY AIM:
To derive from the apostle's discussion of his fund-raising campaign
in Macedonia and Achaia principles of true Christian liberality.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Learn memory verse;
Introduction; questions 1, 2.
Monday: Questions 3-5.
Tuesday: Questions 6-10.
Wednesday: Questions 11-13.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Check Here
0
0
1
40 ]
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Liberality of the Macedonians
1.
Their gift to the relief of the
saints at Jerusalem. 2 Cor. 8:1-4.
2.
Their gift of themselves. 2 Cor.
8:5.
II. Appeal to the Corinthians
3.
The appeal to abound in liberality.
2 Cor. 8:7.
4.
Christ the supreme example of
liberality. 2 Cor. 8:8, 9.
5.
Appeal for completion of fund
gathering. 2 Cor. 8:10, 11.
III. Principles of Giving
6.
Gifts to be proportionate to donor's
ability to contribute. 2 Cor. 8:12.
7.
Equality in mutual relief. 2 Cor.
8:13-15.
8.
The power of example. 2 Cor.
9:1, 2.
9.
Proper organization and execution
of campaign. 2 Cor. 9:3-5.
10.
Reaping in proportion to the
sowing. 2 Cor. 9:6.
IV. Rewards of Liberality
11.
Abundance. 2 Cor. 9:7-9.
12.
Enrichment. 2 Cor. 9:10, 11.
13.
Multiplied benefits. 2 Cor. 9:12-15.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"According to Gal. 2:10 Paul promised
at Jerusalem to take care of the poor
(see also Rom. 15:26; 2 Cor. 8 and 9).
It appears that the church at Jerusalem
was very poor so that even the Macedo-
nian churches, which were not rich them-
selves, had to collect money for Jerusalem.
. . . It should be kept in- mind that a
collection for the poor was not quite
what our notion of it is today. It was
also a collection for the maintenance of
the church, for the care of the poor was
an essential task the church had to perform.
The church itself did not need much
money; the poor needed much more."-
F. W. Grosheide,
Commentary on the First
Epistle to the Corinthians,
page 397.
The Liberality of the Macedonians
1. In view of the poverty of the
Christians at Jerusalem, what had the
believers in Macedonia. done? 2 Cor.
8:1-4.
NOTE.
-"There
had been a famine at
Jerusalem, and Paul knew that many of
the Christians had been scattered abroad
and that those who remained would be
likely to be deprived of human sympathy
and exposed to religious enmity. There-
fore he exhorted the churches to send
pecuniary assistance to their brethren in
Jerusalem. The amount raised by the
churches exceeded the expectation of the
apostles. Constrained by the love of Christ,
the believers gave liberally, and they were
filled with joy because they should thus
express their gratitude to the Redeemer
and their love for the brethren. This is
the true basis of charity according to God's
Word."-Testimonies,
Vol. 6, pp. 271, 272.
2. What experience preceded their
gracious liberality? 2 Cor. 8:5.
NOTE.
-"The
willingness to sacrifice on
the part of the Macedonian believers came
as a result of wholehearted consecration.
Moved by the Spirit of God, they 'first
gave their own selves to the Lord' (2 Co-
rinthians 8:5), then they were willing to
give freely of their means for the support
of the gospel. It was not necessary to urge
them to give; rather, they rejoiced in the
privilege of denying themselves even of
necessary things in order to supply the
needs of others. When the apostle would
have restrained them, they importuned
him to accept their offering. In their sim-
plicity and integrity, and in their love
for the brethren, they gladly denied self,
and thus abounded in the fruit of benevo-
lence."-The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages
343, 344.
[ 41
Appeal to the Corinthians
3.
On what basis did Paul appeal
to the Corinthian believers to abound
in their liberality? 2 Cor. 8:7.
NOTE.—"Here benevolence is placed by
the side of faith, love, and Christian
diligence. Those who think that they
can be good Christians and close their
ears and hearts to the calls of God for
their liberalities, are in a fearful decep-
tion. There are those who abound in
professions of great love for the truth, and,
so far as words are concerned, have an
interest to see the truth advance, but
who do nothing for its advancement. The
faith of such is dead, not being made per-
fect by works. The Lord never made such
a mistake as to convert a soul and leave it
under the power of covetousness."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 3, p. 393.
4.
To what supreme example of
liberality did Paul direct the believ-
ers' attention? 2 Cor. 8:8, 9.
NoTE.—"Here was the apostle's mighty
argument. It is not the commandment
of Paul, but of the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Son of God had left His heavenly
home, with its riches and honor and glory,
and lothed His divinity with humanity—
not to live in the palaces of kings, without
care or labor, and to be supplied with all
the conveniences which human nature
r_•-.turally craves. In the councils of heaven
He had chosen to stand in the ranks of
the poor and oppressed, to take His part
with the humble workers."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol.
6, pp. 1103, 1104.
5.
How long a period had elasped
since the Corinthians had begun their
collection, and what appeal did Paul
now make? 2 Co.:. 8:10, 11.
NoTE.—"Paul's cc unsel was that they
should no longer delay completing what
they had begun a year before. It was
desirable for their own sake that they
should not do so. To delay would be
detrimental to their own Christian ex-
perience, and would leave them open to
criticism. A vow made to God cannot be
repudiated without involving a man's
Christian integrity (Eccl. 5:4,
5)."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 2 Cor. 8:10.
Principles of Giving
6.
On what basis is a man's gift
evaluated? 2 Cor. 8:12.
NOTE.—"All should do something. The
case of the widow who cast in her two
mites is placed upon record for the bene-
fit of others. Christ commended her for
the sacrifice she made and called the at-
tention of His disciples to the act. . . .
Christ esteemed her gift more valuable than •
the large offerings of the most wealthy.
They gave of their abundance. They would
not feel the least privation because of
their offerings. But the widow had de-
prived herself of even the necessaries of
life to make her little offering. She could
not see how her future wants were to be
supplied. She had no husband to support
her in want. She trusted God for the
morrow. The
-
value of the gift is not
estimated so much by the amount that is
given as by the proportion and by the
motive which prompts the
gift."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 2, pp. 666, 667.
7.
On the basis of what principle
should the Corinthians now be ready
to contribute liberally? 2 Cor. 8:
13-15.
NOTE.—"Those who are selfishly with-
holding their means need not be surprised
if God's hand scatters. That which should
have been devoted to the advancement
of the work and cause of God, but which
has been withheld, may be entrusted to
a reckless son, and he may squander it.
A fine horse, the pride of a vain heart,
may be found dead in the stable. Occasion-
ally a cow may die. Losses of fruit or
other crops may come. God can scatter
the means He has lent to His stewards,
if they refuse to use it to His glory. Some,
I sari, may have none of these losses 'to
[ 42 ]
remind them of their remissness in duty,
but their cases may be the more hopeless."
—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, pp. 661, 662.
8.
What effect had the Corinthians'
zeal in fund raising had on others?
2 Cor. 9:1, 2.
NOTE.—"When a people have an earnest
longing to help where help is needed in
advancing the cause of God in any line,
the Lord will impart to these consecrated,
unselfish ones a heart to give gladly, as
if it was a privilege. God moved on these
Macedonians in their deep poverty to
bestow liberally that their example might
be recorded, thus leading others to ex-
ercise the same beneficence."—Ellen G.
White Comments,
S.D A. ' Commentary,
Vol. 6, pp. 1102, 1103.
9.
In spite of the Corinthians'
earlier commitment, what precautions
did Paul take? 2 Cor. 9:3-5.
10.
What principle operates when
men make contributions to a good
cause? 2 Cor. 9:6.
Nom.—"There are many who urge that
they cannot do more for God's cause than
they now do; but they do not give accord-
ing to their ability. The Lord sometimes
opens the eyes blinded by selfishness by
simply reducing their income to the amount
they are willing to
give."—Testimonies,
Vol,
4, p. 484.
Rewards of Liberality
11.
What spirit in the giver is
commended? 2 Cor. 9:7-9.
NOTE.—"It were better not to give
at
all than to give grudgingly; for if we im-
part of our means when we have not the
spirit to give freely, we mock God. Let
us bear in mind that we are dealing with
One upon whom we depend for every
blessing, One who reads every thought of
the heart, every purpose of the mind."—
Ellen G. White Comments,
S.D.A. Bible
Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1105.
12.
How does God respond to
liberal gifts? 2 Cor. 9:10, 11.
13.
What were some of the benefits
that would accrue from the Corin-
thians' gifts? 2 Cor. 9:12-15.
Lesson 13, for March 26, 1966
Concluding Admonitions
MEMORY VERSE:
"Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be
of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with
you." 2 Cor. 13:11.
STUDY HELP:
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
STUDY AIM:
To derive important principles of Christian living from Paul's con-
cluding admonitions in his two letters to the Corinthians.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Tuesday: Questions 7-9.
0
Sunday: Learn memory verse; Intro-
Wednesday: Questions 10-12.
0
duction; questions 1-3.
Thursday: Read study helps.
Monday: Questions 4-6.
0
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
[ 43 ]
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Farewell Admonitions in
1 Corinthians
1. Exhortation to steadfastness.
1 Cor. 16:13.
2. Love the motivation of Christian
conduct. 1 Cor. 16:14.
3. A unique closing greeting. 1 Cor.
16:22, last part.
II. Farewell Admonitions in
2 Corinthians
4. Self-examination enjoined.
2 Cor. 13:5.
5.
Christians to do right for right's
sake. 2 Cor. 13:6, 7.
6.
The triumph of right. 2 Cor. 13:8.
7.
Improvement in Corinthians' ex-
perience expected. 2 Cor. 13:9, 10.
8.
Closing admonitions. 2 Cor. 13:11,
first part.
III. Closing Greetings and Benediction
9. Prayer for God's presence. 2 Cor.
13:11, last part.
10, Greetings with a holy kiss.
2 Cor. 13:12.
11.
Greetings from the saints. 2 Cor.
13:13.
12.
Final benediction. 2 Cor. 13:14.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"His heart was filled with an earnest love
for the Corinthian believers. He longed to
see them revealing an inward piety that
would fortify them against temptation. He
knew that at every step in the Christian
pathway they would be opposed by the
synagogue of Satan and that they would
have to engage in conflicts daily. They
would have to guard against the stealthy
approach of the enemy, forcing back old
habits and natural inclinations, and ever
watching unto prayer. Paul knew that
the higher Christian attainments can be
reached only through much prayer and
constant watchfulness, and this he tried
to instill into their minds. But he knew
also that in Christ crucified they were of-
fered power sufficient to convert the soul
and divinely adapted to enable them to
resist all temptations to evil. With faith
in God as their armor, and with His Word
as their weapon of warfare, they would
be supplied with an inner power that
would enable them to turn aside the at-
tacks of the enemy."—The
Acts of the
Apostles,
page 307.
Farewell Admonitions in
1 Corinthians
1. When bringing 1 Corinthians
to a conclusion, what admonition to
a steadfast Christian experience did
Paul give the believers? 1 Cor. 16:13.
NOTE.—"They should be taught that this
world is not a parade ground, but a battle-
field. All are called to endure hardness, as
good soldiers. They are to be strong and
quit themselves like men. Let them be
taught that the true test of character is
found in the willingness to bear burdens,
to take the hard place, to do the work that
needs to be done, though it bring no
earthly recognition or
reward."—Educa-
tion,
page 295.
2. On the basis of what principle
were all things to be done? 1 Cor.
16:14.
NOTE.—"God's law is fulfilled only as
men love Him with heart, mind, soul, and
strength, and their neighbor as themselves.
It is the manifestation of this love that
brings glory to God in the highest, and on
earth peace and goodwill to men. The
Lord is glorified when the great end of His
law is attained. It is the work of the
Holy Spirit from age to age to impart love
to human hearts, for love is the living
principle of brotherhood." —
Testimonies,
Vol. 8, p. 139.
f
441
3.
What significant, term did Paul
use in his conclusion to his letter?
1 Cor. 16:22, last part.
NoTE.--Maran-atha is the transliteration
of an Aramaic word meaning, in this con-
text, "Our Lord cometh," or "0, our Lord,
come." It is an obvious reference to the
second coming of Christ and may have
been a Christian watchword in common
use in Paul's day.
Farewell Admonitions in
2 Corinthians
4.
In concluding his next letter,
what did Paul ask the Corinthian
believers to do? 2 Cor. 13:5.
NoTE.—"Those who have no time to give
attention. to their own souls, to examine
themselves daily whether they be in the
love of God, and place themselves in the
channel of light, will have time to give to
the suggestions of Satan, and the working
out of his plans.
"Satan will insinuate himself by little
wedges, that widen as they make a place
for themselves. The specious devices of
Satan will be brought into the special work
of God at this time."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
Vol.
6, p. 1107.
5.
Despite what circumstances
should the Christian do what is
right? 2 Cor. 13:6, 7.
NOTE.—"Whatever may be their profes-
sion, it is only those who are world servers
at heart that act from policy rather than
principle in religious things. We should
choose the right because it is right, and
leave consequences with God. To men of
principle, faith, and daring, the world is
indebted for its great reforms. By such
men the work of reform for this time
must be carried forward."—The
Great Con-
troversy,
page 460.
6.
What relationship exists be-
tween the believers' conduct and the
truth? 2 Cor. 13:8.
7.
What unselfish concern did Paul
have for the Corinthians' spiritual
welfare? 2 Cor. 13:9, 10.
NOTE. "Jesus said, Be perfect as
your
Father
is perfect. If you are the children
of God you are partakers of His nature,
and you cannot but be like Him. Every
child lives by the life of his father. If you
are God's children, begotten by His Spirit,
you live by the life of God. In Christ
dwells 'all the fullness of the Godhead
bodily' (Colossians 2:9) ; and the life of
Jesus is made manifest 'in our mortal flesh'
(2 Corinthians 4:11). That life in you
will produce the same character and mani-
fest the same works as it did in Him.
Thus you will be in harmony with every
precept of His law; for 'the law of the
Lord is perfect, restoring the soul.' Psalm
19:7, margin. Through love 'the righteous-
ness of the law' will be 'fulfilled in us, who
walk not after the flesh, but after the
Spirit.' Romans
8:4."—Thoughts From the
Mount of Blessing,
pages 77, 78.
8.
In his farewell, what four items
of advice did Paul urge upon the
Corinthians? 2 Cor. 13:11, first part.
NOTE.—"The Lord has given us in His
Word definite, unmistakable instructions,
by obedience to which we may preserve
union and harmony in the church. Brethren
and sisters, are you giving heed to these
inspired injunctions? Are you Bible readers
and doers of the Word? Are you striving
to fulfill the prayer of Christ that His
followers might be one? 'The God of
patience and consolation grant you to be
like-minded one toward another according
to Christ Jesus: that ye may with one
mind and one mouth glorify God.'
"—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 5, p. 248.
I 45 I
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
March 26, 1966
Inter-American Division
You will not find a territory on the map called Inter-America, but to
Seventh-day Adventists there definitely is such a place! With headquarters
in Miami, Florida, United States, the Inter-American Division stretches as
far west as Lower California and Mexico; as far south as Colombia,
Venezuela, and the Guianas on the northern coast of South America; as
far east as the islands of the Caribbean; and as far north as the borders of
the United States of America.
In this vast territory, comprised of 27 countries and numerous islands,
live
TOO
million people. There are 91 million Spanish-speaking people,
of whom 91,000 are Seventh-day Adventists; 4
1
/
2
million French-speaking
people with 26,000 Seventh-day Adventists; and 4
1
/
2
million English-speak-
ing inhabitants with 68,000 Seventh-day Adventists.
To meet the challenge of this hour we feel the need of better trained
workers. Therefore, two major educational projects have been chosen to
benefit from the overflow this quarter. We believe that investing in Seventh-
day Adventist youth is the best investment we can make, for it pays large
dividends in a world torn by strife and nationalism. Therefore we solicit
the liberality of our people all around the world on the Thirteenth Sabbath
for a boarding academy in Venezuela and a secondary day school in the
French West Indies.
Sabbath School members who have failed to receive a senior
Lesson Quarterly
for the second quarter of 1966 will be helped by the following outline in studying
the first lesson. The title of the series is "Christian Virtues." The title of the
first lesson is "Goodness and Nobility." The memory verse is Matthew 5:16.
The study helps are
Testimonies,
Vol. 1, pp. 303-310; Vol. 5, pp. 532-541; Vol. 9,
pp. 19-29. The texts to be studied are:
Ques. 1. Luke 18:18, 19.
Ques. 2. Ek. 33:19; 34
.
:6, 7.
Ques. 3. Acts 10:38.
Ques. 4. Luke 4:18, 19.
Ques. 5. Ps. 14:2, 3.
Ques. 6. Rom. 2:4.
Ques. 7. Ps. 107:9 ; Matt. 5:6.
Ques. 8. Gal. 5:22, 23.
Ques. 9. 1 Peter 1:15, 16;
Matt. 5:48; Eph. 4:13. '
Ques. 10. Matt. 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12.
Ques. 11. Titus 2:11-14.
Ques. 12. Heb. 13:20, 21.
Ques. 13. Matt. 25:21.
[47
1
Br
Honduras
COLOMBIA
PROJECTS
1.
A boarding academy in Nirgua,
V
Ia.
2.
A secondary school on the island
of Martinique in the French West
Indies.
Bahama Islands
fA
4
Puerto
Jamaica
Republic
CARIBBEAN SEA
tiNTER-AMERICAN
DIVISION
CHURCH
SAS. SCH.
UNIONS
POPULATION CHURCHES WAIL WEAL
ANTILLIAN U.M.
12,925.000
217
20,559
31,615
CARIBBEAN U.M.
2,437,530
222
25,788
29.529
CENTRAL AMERICAN U.M.
14,317.243
205
19,596
' 29.883
COLOMBIA-VENEZUELA U.M.
26,023,246.
140
23.725
34,511
FRANCO-HAITIAN U.M.
5.250.000
100
26,518
36.723
MEXICAN U.M.
39.746.595
232
31.695
71.253
WEST INDIES U.M.
1,836,089
351
39,913
43,238
DIVISION
1
35
Fr
TOTALS
102,535,703
1,468
187,829
276,752
Trinidad